Blue Origin has postponed the next launch of its heavy-lift New Glenn rocket to January 2027. This is the latest delay following a serious explosion at the launch pad in May.
According to Reuters, the decision is based on an internal memorandum from CEO Dave Limp that journalists have seen, as well as information from two sources close to the company. Flights had previously been planned to resume before the end of 2026.
The explosion occurred at Blue Origin's only launch pad in Florida. The New Glenn rocket, roughly 30 stories tall, has already risen into the air three times since its debut in 2025. The incident happened several days before the scheduled launch of Amazon satellites into orbit.
The explosion severely damaged the launch complex. The company has been actively restoring the infrastructure, including repairing and reassembling the rocket access tower and restoring the launch bridge.
In the memorandum, Dave Limp noted that the pace of recovery has been difficult. Summer weather hampered the work, and in recent days the region has been hit by flash floods. "Restoring at such a pace was not easy. Those who live or spend time on the Cape know that this year's summer weather did not help us," he wrote.
The launch of New Glenn is important for Amazon, whose Leo satellite network competes with SpaceX's Starlink. The delay also affects the company's other plans. Just how quickly will the rocket be able to return to service after such damage?
The Financial Times was the first to report the postponement. Blue Origin confirmed that returning New Glenn to flight remains a priority.
