Blue Origin has achieved a significant milestone in its journey to space with the successful completion of a critical test for its massive New Glenn rocket. On Monday, the rocket's second stage underwent a risk reduction hotfire test, marking the first time Blue Origin operated the vehicle as an integrated system.
The 15-second hotfire test validated the interactions between the second stage's subsystems, including its two engines and ground control systems. This achievement is a vital step towards New Glenn's inaugural flight, scheduled for later this year. The test also provided the launch operations team with the opportunity to practice launch day procedures and verify the timing of several critical operations.
Standing approximately 26.8 meters tall with a diameter of 7 meters, New Glenn is designed for demanding missions to low Earth orbit, medium Earth orbit, and geosynchronous orbit. The rocket is set to carry NASA's ESCAPADE mission to Mars on its first flight, highlighting Blue Origin's role in advancing satellite launches and contributing to global space exploration efforts.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
