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Blue Origin successfully launched its new rocket on its inaugural test flight Thursday, deploying a prototype satellite into orbit thousands of miles above the Earth. Named after the first American to orbit the planet, the New Glenn rocket took off from Florida, utilizing the same launch pad that once served NASA’s Mariner and Pioneer missions over fifty years ago.
Developed over several years with significant investment from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the 320-foot (98-meter) rocket was equipped with an experimental platform intended for satellite hosting or deployment into their designated orbits.
All seven main engines ignited at liftoff, propelling the rocket through the early morning sky, much to the excitement of spectators gathered on nearby beaches. Bezos participated from Mission Control, and Blue Origin staff erupted in cheers as the vehicle successfully reached orbit 13 minutes later, earning commendations from SpaceX’s Elon Musk. Although the first-stage booster failed to land on a barge in the Atlantic, the company emphasized that the primary objective was accomplished.
Before the flight, Bezos remarked that attempting to land the booster on the first attempt was “a little crazy.” “We did it!” exclaimed Blue Origin’s CEO Dave Limp via X, celebrating the successful orbit. “On to spring and trying again on the landing.” For this test, the satellite was designed to remain within the second stage while orbiting the Earth. Plans included ensuring the second stage would be placed in a safe condition to maintain a high, less-trafficked orbit, in line with NASA’s guidelines for reducing space debris.
