Blue Origin Prepares for Second New Glenn Launch with Mars Mission
Blue Origin is preparing for the second launch of its New Glenn rocket, aiming to deploy NASA's ESCAPADE mission to Mars and achieve a successful booster recovery.
Blue Origin is advancing preparations for the second flight of its New Glenn rocket, targeting the launch of NASA's ESCAPADE mission to Mars. The mission comprises two small spacecraft designed to study the Martian magnetosphere.
The inaugural New Glenn flight in January 2025 successfully placed its payload into orbit; however, the first-stage booster failed to land on the drone ship, leading to its loss. An investigation identified seven corrective actions focusing on propellant management and engine bleed control.
Initially slated for late spring, the second launch has been postponed, with current projections indicating a window between November 9 and November 11. This schedule is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-launch activities, including a static-fire test of the first stage.
A key objective for this mission is the recovery and reuse of the first-stage booster, named "Never Tell Me The Odds." Blue Origin engineers estimate a 75% chance of successful landing on the drone ship Jacklyn. Achieving booster recovery is crucial for the New Glenn program's financial viability, as the first stage's manufacturing cost exceeds $100 million.
The ESCAPADE mission was originally scheduled for New Glenn's first flight but was reassigned due to integration delays. A successful launch and booster recovery would mark significant progress for Blue Origin in the competitive space launch industry.
