Source: Fortune.com
Summary
Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket failed to put a satellite into the correct orbit due to a bad engine, causing the satellite to reenter the atmosphere. The launch was the third flight for the New Glenn rocket, which is expected to be used for NASA’s Artemis moon program. The failure has grounded launches until an investigation is completed. The satellite was intended to join a network providing direct space-to-smart phone service.
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Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket had a successful first-stage booster landing, but the upper stage engine failed to produce enough thrust. The rocket’s failure has significant implications, as NASA is counting on it to launch Blue Moon lunar landers. The incident also affects AST SpaceMobile’s plans for a space-to-smart phone service. The investigation is ongoing, and launches are grounded. It’s a familiar story of technical issues and delays in the space industry. The real test for Blue Origin is how quickly it can recover and get back on track.
Author: Evan Null
