Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket explodes during testing in Florida
Original: Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket explodes during testing in Florida
Why This Matters
Major setback for Blue Origin's competition with SpaceX and NASA's Artemis program
Blue Origin's New Glenn mega-rocket exploded during a static fire test at Cape Canaveral on May 28, 2026. The fully fueled rocket was being tested ahead of its planned fourth launch carrying Amazon Leo satellites. All personnel were confirmed safe.
Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket exploded during a static fire test at Cape Canaveral, Florida, creating one of the largest rocket explosions in U.S. history and the worst failure in Blue Origin's existence. The rocket was fully fueled and preparing for its fourth launch to carry Amazon Leo internet satellites. Jeff Bezos confirmed all personnel were safe and said the company would 'rebuild whatever needs rebuilding.' NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said the agency would support a thorough investigation and assess impacts on Artemis and Moon Base programs. The FAA confirmed no impact to air traffic. The explosion will likely pause Blue Origin's New Glenn program, which had planned 12 launches this year to compete with SpaceX.