Named after John Glenn, the Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket promises to revolutionize heavy-lift space missions with its advanced technology. (Blue Origin)

Blue Origin, led by Jeff Bezos, introduces New Glenn rocket, marking a new chapter in space exploration

Adarsh V.KFebruary 24, 24 Blue Origin, Earth, Jeff Bezos, NASA

Blue Origin, the space technology company founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos, has reached a major milestone as its New Glenn rocket made its debut on the launch pad at Launch Complex 36 (LC-36). This is the first time the advanced heavy-lift vehicle has been rolled out and erected, offering a preview of what can be expected for upcoming space missions.

The new Glenn rocket makes its debut

According to a Blue Origin blog post. The New Glenn rocket is poised to play a key role in a number of missions, including supporting NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon. The successful deployment and ascent of the launch pad marks a crucial step forward in the vehicle’s development, paving the way for its first launch later this year.

The journey to the launch pad began in December, when New Glenn’s first-stage modules were transported from the factory to the Integration Facility, nine miles away. The next test campaign will focus on validating various systems, including cryogenic fluid charging, pressurization and ventilation systems in preparation for launch.

About the rocket

Named after John Glenn, the first American to orbit the Earth, the New Glenn rocket is more than 320 feet tall and has a seven-meter payload fairing that can hold twice the space of standard commercial launch systems. Its reusable first stage aims to complete at least 25 missions and land on an ocean-based platform located about 620 miles down.

Powered by seven BE-4 engines developed by Blue Origin, the New Glenn rocket uses liquid oxygen and liquefied natural gas (LNG) and offers improved performance and cleaner burning compared to conventional fuels.

Blue Origin has a robust customer list for the New Glenn rocket, including contracts with NASA, Project Kuiper, Telesat and Eutelsat, among others. In addition, the company is seeking US Space Force certification for the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program, underscoring its commitment to supporting national security objectives.

The successful debut of the New Glenn rocket on the launch pad marks significant progress in Blue Origin’s efforts to expand access to space and usher in a new era of space exploration and commercialization.