Here is what I know after the explosion.
- The Aftermath: No personnel were injured, and there was no threat to the surrounding public. Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos addressed the incident on X, calling it a "very rough day" but pledging to rebuild.
- The Mission: The test was a pre-launch check to prepare the rocket for its fourth-ever flight, which was scheduled to deploy 49 of Amazon's internet broadband satellites.
- The Setback: This explosion represents a significant setback for the company. The New Glenn rocket previously made headlines for a mission failure the prior month when an engine issue left a satellite in the wrong orbit. Because Launch Complex 36 is the sole pad for New Glenn, the extensive damage means the rocket is expected to remain grounded for a prolonged period.
Space X has suffered these issues many times as well. This is a very dangerous science that can go sideways at ANY time!