Monday’s test was a significant milestone for Blue Origin as they successfully ignited the second stage of the New Glenn rocket for the first time. The second stage, known as GS2, underwent a 15-second hot-fire test fueled by liquid oxygen and hydrogen, each producing 173,000 pounds of thrust. This test marked the first time Blue Origin had integrated and fired an orbital rocket stage.
The New Glenn rocket stands at an impressive 320 feet tall, making it a massive vehicle in comparison to NASA’s Saturn V Moon rocket. The first stage of the New Glenn will be powered by seven BE-4 rocket engines that burn methane and liquid oxygen. While the performance of these engines has been demonstrated in flight before, there is still much work to be done to prepare the New Glenn rocket for its launch in November.
After completing the assembly of the first stage, Blue Origin will have to roll the vehicle out to Launch Complex-36 along the Atlantic Ocean. The integration of the first and second stages will be a complex process, and engineers will likely encounter some issues that need to be addressed. Following the integration, a short hot-fire test will be conducted before the vehicle is ready for launch.
Blue Origin’s CEO, Dave Limp, has been pushing for a launch of the New Glenn rocket this year, despite facing challenges and delays. Weather conditions, such as the possibility of hurricanes, could impact the launch schedule. Additionally, the integration of the rocket stages may present unforeseen difficulties that could affect the timeline for the debut of the New Glenn rocket.
The dedication and hard work of Blue Origin’s team will be essential in overcoming these challenges and ensuring a successful launch. As they continue to work towards the goal of launching the New Glenn rocket, the company remains focused on addressing any issues that may arise during the integration and testing process. The successful hot-fire test of the second stage is a promising step forward for Blue Origin as they strive to make space exploration more accessible and efficient.
