Blue Origin announced that the recent explosion of its rocket did not damage fuel tanks or other critical launch pad components. The company’s New Glenn rocket, crucial for NASA’s Artemis lunar program, exploded during a test at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
The lightning tower and transporter-erector used for the rocket were destroyed. Despite sending shockwaves through the state, essential components remained intact. CEO Dave Limp highlighted that the methane, hydrogen, and oxygen tanks are in good condition. The water tank and support tower are also repairable onsite. Nearby stored rocket parts, including a booster, were undamaged.
Limp shared on X that this outcome was “kind of good news” and promised another flight before the year’s end. The investigation into the cause continues.
Blue Origin received a NASA contract worth hundreds of millions days before the incident. New Glenn will launch lunar explorers preceding Artemis astronauts, who will use them. New Glenn is also set to launch Blue Moon lunar modules, carrying astronauts to the lunar surface.
The target for the first lunar landing since Apollo 17 in 1972 is 2028. NASA’s administrator Jared Isaacman stated the agency’s commitment to making the launch pad operational while focusing on lunar module advancement.
New Glenn, named after John Glenn, the first American in orbit, has launched three times. It’s smaller than SpaceX’s Starship, which has been testing flights from Texas to the edge of space. NASA has commissioned Starships and Blue Moon modules for Artemis astronauts’ lunar missions.
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