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FAA orders investigation into Blue Origin’s New Glenn mishap

The FAA has ordered Blue Origin to investigate a failure in the upper stage of the New Glenn rocket that occurred during its third launch. This investigation halts future launches until resolved, impacting Blue Origin's plans for up to 12 more missions this year. The mishap resulted in the lost delivery of a satellite for AST SpaceMobile. Blue Origin's future lunar projects and U.S. Space Force certifications are also at risk.

Key points

  • The FAA has instructed Blue Origin to conduct an investigation into a failure of the New Glenn rocket's upper stage during its third launch.
  • As a result, Blue Origin cannot conduct additional launches until the investigation is complete, potentially affecting plans for 12 more missions in 2023.
  • The mishap occurred after a successful initial launch and booster recovery. However, the satellite intended for AST SpaceMobile was placed in a significantly lower orbit.
  • AST SpaceMobile stated the satellite is considered a loss but has insurance to cover it and is preparing new satellites for launch.
  • The failure impacts Blue Origin’s overall mission viability, including its ambitions for lunar lander projects and securing U.S. Space Force certifications.

Why it matters

  • This incident sheds light on ongoing challenges in the commercial space industry, particularly for emerging players like Blue Origin.
  • Failures in rocket launches may affect broader trends in space exploration, including lunar ambitions aligned with the U.S. government's goals in returning humans to the Moon.
  • As of 2025, competition between companies like Blue Origin and SpaceX is critical, with reusability remaining a central theme in their operations and future viability.

The New Glenn rocket incident reflects significant hurdles for Blue Origin, threatening its commercial satellite missions, future launches, and ambitions in U.S. lunar exploration, presenting a pivotal moment in the competitive landscape of the space industry.