Blue Origin’s New Glenn Misplaces Satellite in Third Flight Orbit Error
Blue Origin’s latest launch marked a significant event in the company’s efforts to advance its space capabilities. The third flight of the New Glenn rocket occurred on a Sunday morning at 7:25 a.m. ET from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This mission was notable as it utilized a previously flown first stage, showcasing the company’s commitment to reusability.
Launch Highlights
The New Glenn rocket’s liftoff generated a powerful roar as its seven BE-4 engines ignited, producing 3.8 million pounds of thrust. The first stage separated from the rocket about three minutes after launch and successfully landed on a barge stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. This marked its second flight, having also performed flawlessly during its previous mission in November.
Satellite Deployment Issues
Despite the successful launch and first-stage recovery, the mission faced challenges with the second stage. The payload, AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird 7 satellite, was placed in a lower-than-planned orbit, rendering it unusable. The satellite, designed to provide direct-to-cellphone communications, relies on an onboard propulsion system that was unable to compensate for the unexpected altitude.
- Rocket: New Glenn
- Launch time: 7:25 a.m. ET
- Launch site: Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
- Payload: BlueBird 7 satellite
- First-stage recovery: Successful
- Orbit status: Misplaced
Officials from AST SpaceMobile confirmed that the satellite successfully separated from the rocket and powered on, but the orbit was not suitable for its operations. Consequently, it will de-orbit as it cannot maintain a stable position in space.
Future Plans and Impact
AST SpaceMobile aims to deploy up to 60 additional BlueBird satellites to form a constellation that will enhance global cellular coverage. The company plans to launch these satellites using various rockets, including SpaceX’s Falcon 9 and Blue Origin’s New Glenn. They intend to maintain a schedule of launches every one to two months through 2026.
In addition to advancing its satellite ambitions, Blue Origin is focused on developing other missions. The company plans to engage in commercial and military satellite deployment and is working on a lunar lander to support NASA’s Artemis program.
The New Glenn rocket is integral to Blue Origin’s broader strategy, which includes direct competition with SpaceX’s established Starlink system. The company also plans to explore future projects based on the findings from the recent mission’s issues with the satellite deployment.
