Blue Origin's New Glenn Becomes First U.S. Methalox Rocket to Reach Orbit After Delays

Jan 16, 2025, 06:23 AM

Jeff Bezos' rocket company Blue Origin has successfully launched its New Glenn rocket for the first time after multiple delays. The maiden flight took place on Thursday, January 16, 2025, from Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, with liftoff at 2:03 a.m. ET. The New Glenn rocket, standing 322 feet tall, reached orbit on its inaugural flight, marking a significant milestone for Blue Origin as it seeks to compete with SpaceX in the satellite launch market. The launch was delayed several times due to technical issues, including ice buildup in critical plumbing, and unfavorable weather conditions, with only a 40% chance of favorable weather at the time of launch. The New Glenn's BE-4 engines, powered by methane, propelled the rocket into space, making it the first American methalox rocket to reach orbit. The rocket's first stage attempted to land but was unsuccessful.