Blue Origin New Glenn rocket explodes during Florida static fire test
No injuries reported as heavy-lift vehicle is destroyed during hotfire test; NASA pledges cooperation with investigation into anomaly.
Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket exploded during a hotfire test on the launch pad at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on Thursday, resulting in a massive fireball and the destruction of the 98-metre-tall vehicle. The incident, which occurred during a static fire test ahead of the rocket’s anticipated fourth launch, marks a significant setback for the company as it seeks to establish a reliable launch cadence for commercial spaceflight and its partnership with NASA on lunar missions.
The explosion engulfed the heavy-lift rocket in flames, though Blue Origin confirmed that all personnel were accounted for and no injuries were reported. In a statement posted to X, the company described the event as an anomaly during the test and noted that its team was already working to identify the root cause. CEO Jeff Bezos echoed this sentiment, stating on the platform that it was too early to determine the cause but affirming the company’s commitment to rebuilding and returning to flight.
The incident follows a series of challenges for the New Glenn programme. Last month, the rocket failed to deliver a communications satellite for AST SpaceMobile into the correct orbit due to thermal conditions that prevented one engine from achieving full thrust. That failure prompted the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to require a mishap investigation, which Blue Origin completed earlier in May. The company confirmed on 22 May that the FAA had approved its NG-3 report and that corrective measures had been implemented.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman acknowledged awareness of the explosion and pledged cooperation with the investigation. Isaacman highlighted the inherent difficulties in developing new heavy-lift launch capabilities, stating that the agency would work with partners to support a thorough inquiry and assess near-term mission impacts. This cooperation is critical given Blue Origin’s role in developing a lunar lander for NASA’s Artemis moon missions.
Florida Congressman Mike Haridopolos, whose district includes Cape Canaveral, confirmed he had been in contact with Isaacman regarding the event. He expressed gratitude for the quick actions of first responders and launch crews, noting his relief that there were no reported injuries. Meanwhile, Elon Musk, founder of rival company SpaceX, offered condolences, calling the accident most unfortunate. The explosion halts the vehicle’s schedule for its fourth mission, which was intended to deploy satellites for Amazon’s Leo internet constellation.
