Blue Origin successfully launched its New Glenn rocket early Thursday, marking a key milestone in the satellite launch industry. The rocket, featuring a reusable first stage, lifted off from Cape Canaveral, positioning Blue Origin as a competitor to SpaceX in commercial space exploration.
Cape Canaveral – Blue Origin successfully launched its New Glenn rocket early Thursday morning, marking a significant step in the satellite launch industry and positioning itself as a competitor to SpaceX.
“We did it! Orbital. Great night for Team Blue. On to spring and trying again on the landing,” wrote Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp on X following the liftoff.
“New Glenn has passed the Kármán line, the internationally recognised boundary of space!” the company announced, confirming the rocket had entered orbit.
The second stage, which separates after the first stage, continued the journey into space, with another burn confirmed.
The 30-story rocket, featuring a reusable first stage, lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 1:35 a.m. ET after multiple delays earlier in the week.
Jeff Bezos’ ambition to challenge Elon Musk’s SpaceX in commercial space exploration depends on reusable technology. Unlike traditional rockets, the first stage of New Glenn is designed to return safely to Earth for reuse, reducing launch costs and increasing efficiency.
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