Blue Origin has set a very aggressive return-to-flight timeline
Summary
Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket exploded at its Florida launch site last week. The company plans to fix the launch pad and fly the rocket again before the end of 2024, aiming to rebuild quickly despite the damage.Key Facts
- Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket exploded during a test on May 28, 2024.
- The explosion damaged the LC-36A launch site and the transporter-erector, which moves the rocket to the pad.
- The company’s CEO, Dave Limp, said inspections show key fuel tanks and the water tower are still in good condition.
- Blue Origin will rebuild the LC-36A pad to support the 7×2 version of New Glenn, not the larger 9×4 version.
- Limp confirmed they will switch to a new method to move the rocket that does not require rebuilding the damaged transporter-erector.
- The company aims to launch again before the end of 2024, about six months after the accident.
- Some experts think a faster timeline may be too optimistic; a more realistic return might take 12 to 18 months.
- NASA and the U.S. Space Force support Blue Origin’s recovery efforts and may help speed up approvals and repairs.
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