Blue Origin Successfully Launches New Glenn Rocket on Second Test Flight
HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA – November 21, 2024 – Blue Origin achieved a important milestone in its space program today, successfully launching the New Glenn rocket on its second integrated flight test. The launch, originating from Space Launch Complex-36 at cape Canaveral, Florida, showcased the rocket’s full stack – booster, upper stage, and payload – and included a controlled landing of the reusable booster.
The new Glenn rocket’s flight represents a crucial step toward providing heavy-lift launch capabilities for both government and commercial customers. This triumphant test demonstrates Blue Origin’s progress in developing a fully reusable launch system, aiming to lower the cost of accessing space and increase launch frequency. The mission’s success is especially critically important as the demand for space-based services, including satellite deployment and space tourism, continues to grow.
the flight profile began with a powerful liftoff, followed by booster separation and ignition of the upper stage. The upper stage then deployed several payloads into orbit,including NASA’s Lunar Flashlight mission,designed to map water ice on the Moon’s south pole. Following payload deployment, the booster executed a precise descent and vertical landing back at the launch site, marking a successful recovery of a key component of the launch system.
Blue Origin has been developing New Glenn for several years, with the first launch attempt in May 2023 ending prematurely due to an issue with the upper stage engine. Today’s successful flight validates the improvements made to the rocket’s design and operational procedures. The company plans to conduct further test flights and refine the system before begining commercial operations, anticipated in late 2025.
