Blue Origin announced its readiness for the first launch of its New Glenn rocket following a successful static-fire test on December 27th, just hours after receiving a launch license. The test, conducted at Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, involved igniting the seven BE-4 engines in the rocket's first stage.
The engines fired for 24 seconds, reaching 100% thrust for 13 seconds. This test concluded a comprehensive campaign that included propellant loading into both stages and practice countdowns. Blue Origin stated the test campaign validated vehicle and ground systems, fulfilling all objectives and marking the final major test before launch. "The campaign met all objectives and marks the final major test prior to launch,” the company stated.
The Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) timely issuance of the launch license was highlighted by Kelvin Coleman, associate administrator for commercial space transportation at the FAA: “By working closely with Blue Origin, the FAA issued this new launch license well in advance of the statutory deadline for the historic maiden flight of New Glenn.”
With the license secured and the static-fire test completed, Blue Origin is poised for launch, possibly as early as January. Dave Limp, chief executive of Blue Origin, expressed this excitement: “Well, all we have left to do is mate our encapsulated payload…and then LAUNCH!” Jeff Bezos added concisely: “Next stop launch.”
For the test, Blue Origin utilized “manufacturing test demonstrator fairings” and a payload mass simulator. These will be replaced with flight hardware for the inaugural launch, carrying the Blue Ring Pathfinder technology demonstrator for the company’s Blue Ring orbital transfer vehicle. This payload will remain attached to the upper stage throughout the mission.
While the official launch date for NG-1 remains unannounced, an airspace advisory suggests a potential launch window on January 6th, with a backup on January 7th. Originally aiming for a 2024 launch, Blue Origin's schedule was adjusted following the replacement of the ESCAPADE mission with the Blue Ring Pathfinder.