Blue Origin's New Glenn Set for Third Launch with Reused Booster

Blue Origin is set to launch its New Glenn rocket for the third time on Sunday, April 19, 2026, from Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The two-hour launch window opens at 6:45 a.m. EDT (10:45 UTC). This mission, designated NG-3, marks the first reuse of a New Glenn first-stage booster, a significant step toward the company's goal of achieving full reusability for its heavy-lift launch vehicle.

The NG-3 mission will carry AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 7 satellite into low Earth orbit. BlueBird 7 is part of AST SpaceMobile's constellation aimed at providing direct-to-cellphone internet services globally. The satellite features a 2,400-square-foot antenna, making it one of the largest ever deployed in space.

In preparation for the launch, Blue Origin conducted a successful 19-second static fire test of the rocket's seven BE-4 engines on April 16, 2026. This test validated the performance of the refurbished booster, which previously flew during the NG-2 mission in November 2025. For this flight, the booster has been equipped with new engines and hardware upgrades, including a thermal protection system on one of the engine nozzles.

If the launch proceeds as planned, the first stage will attempt a landing on Blue Origin's landing platform vessel, "Jacklyn," stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. A successful recovery would further demonstrate the reusability of the New Glenn booster, aligning with Blue Origin's strategy to reduce launch costs and increase flight frequency.

Live coverage of the launch will begin approximately 30 minutes prior to liftoff and will be available on Blue Origin's official channels.