Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket explodes in massive fireball during prelaunch test

image via Space.com

May 29, 2026, 3:41 AM

• •New Glenn rocket exploded during a prelaunch engine test.
• •The explosion could significantly impact Blue Origin and NASA's moon plans.
• •The accident occurred at Launch Complex 36 (LC-36) in Florida.
• •NASA is working with Blue Origin to investigate the cause and assess impacts.

Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket exploded during a prelaunch engine test, causing significant damage to the launch pad and potentially delaying the company's and NASA's moon plans. The accident could impact the launch of Blue Moon, a crucial vehicle for landing astronauts on the moon as part of the Artemis program. NASA is working with Blue Origin to investigate the anomaly and assess its effects on the Artemis and Moon Base programs. The incident highlights the challenges of developing new heavy-lift launch capabilities and the risks associated with spaceflight.

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