Jeff Bezos' heavy rocket New Glenn exploded during testing
Blue Origin's New Glenn launch vehicle exploded during testing at Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral in Florida, according to a live broadcast by NASASpaceFlight.com. The incident occurred on Thursday, May 28, at approximately 9:00 PM local time (5:00 AM on Friday, May 29, Baku time - ed.).
Blue Origin confirmed on social media platform X that an "anomaly" occurred during the test. According to company owner Jeff Bezos, all employees are safe and there is no threat to personnel. He emphasized that it is premature to draw conclusions about the causes of the accident.
According to the Associated Press, the explosion was so powerful that residents of Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach reported houses vibrating and a bright flash in the sky. Local authorities stated that there is no threat from possible fuel emissions.
The tests were conducted as part of preparations for the fourth launch of New Glenn, which was planned for the coming weeks. The rocket was supposed to deliver 48 satellites into orbit for Amazon's Leo internet service. No spacecraft were on board during the test. The extent of damage to the launch infrastructure has not yet been determined.
New Glenn is a heavy-class rocket developed by Blue Origin for commercial, scientific, and national missions. It debuted in 2025 and is being considered by NASA as one of the elements of the Artemis program. Bezos stated that the company will restore everything necessary and return to flights.
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