A New Glenn rocket made by Blue Origin has exploded on a Florida launchpad during a hotfire test.
The cause of the explosion is not yet clear, with Jeff Bezos’ firm simply saying there was an “anomaly” during the test and that all employees have been accounted for.
“It’s too early to know the root cause but we’re already working to find it,” Blue Origin said on X. “Very rough day, but we’ll rebuild whatever needs rebuilding and get back to flying. It’s worth it.”
The rocket was being prepared for its fourth flight, scheduled for next week, that would have deployed 48 Amazon Leo internet satellites into low-Earth orbit. The satellites themselves were not on the rocket during the test.
Initial reports show that severe damage was inflicted on Launch Complex 36, which is Blue Origin’s only operational New Glenn pad. The blast completely destroyed the transporter-erector, which is the gantry used to move and lift the rocket.
Blue Origin is currently contracted for major components of Nasa’s...