Blue Origin prepared for the inaugural launch of its New Glenn rocket from Cape Canaveral early Monday but delayed liftoff to address last-minute issues. The 30-story rocket, loaded with methane and liquid oxygen propellants, was initially set to launch at 1:00 am ET but saw repeated delays nearing the 4 am launch window’s end. A company spokeswoman cited “a few anomalies” without further details.
The mission marks a pivotal moment in Blue Origin’s decade-long, multi-billion-dollar effort to enter the satellite launch market. The rocket’s first-stage booster will attempt a sea barge landing in the Atlantic 10 minutes after launch, while the second stage continues to orbit. Founder Jeff Bezos emphasized the risks, saying, “Anything could happen on a first flight.”
The payload includes Blue Ring, a prototype spacecraft designed for satellite servicing and national security missions. Successfully reaching orbit would set a rare precedent for inaugural launches.
New Glenn’s development has faced delays as SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, dominated the industry with its Falcon 9. To accelerate progress, Bezos appointed Dave Limp as CEO in late 2023, instilling urgency at Blue Origin.
Boasting over twice the power of Falcon 9, New Glenn has secured contracts worth billions. Bezos described the booster landing as “icing on the cake,” signaling high stakes for this debut.
Also read: FTC and DOJ Weigh In on Musk’s OpenAI Antitrust Lawsuit
