Blue Origin rocket explodes ahead of satellite launch
Blue Origin said all personnel were accounted for as investigators examined the cause of the fireball that threatened Amazon Leo launch plans.
- On Thursday, May 28, 2026, a Blue Origin New Glenn rocket exploded during a planned static-fire test at Launch Complex 36 in Cape Canaveral, Florida, destroying the vehicle and severely damaging the launch pad.
- The 322-foot vehicle detonated while secured to the pad during a hotfire test, a procedure involving engine ignition; Blue Origin confirmed all personnel were accounted for and safe following the anomaly.
- Space Launch Delta 45 warned that hazardous debris could wash ashore over coming days and weeks, advising the public to call 911 if suspected material is found and avoid direct contact.
- NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated the agency will support a thorough investigation and assess impacts to the Artemis program, calling spaceflight "unforgiving" and development of heavy-lift capability "extraordinarily difficult."
- Delays jeopardize Amazon's requirement to orbit half of its 3,236-satellite constellation by July 30, 2026, complicating Blue Origin's efforts to compete with SpaceX in the broadband internet market.
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Blue Origin rocket exploded on launchpad, throwing the future of NASA’s Artemis program into question
A New Glenn rocket stands ready at the launchpad in April 2026, a month before disaster would strike. AP Photo/John RaouxDuring an evening test fire on May 28, 2026, a Blue Origin New Glenn rocket exploded, engulfing the launchpad in a massive fireball. The spectacular fire, caught on video, not only destroyed the rocket but also appears to have significantly damaged Blue Origin’s only launchpad at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Flori…
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