Blue Origin unveiled on Thursday, November 20, 2025, an upgraded variant of its New Glenn rocket, aiming to build a family of orbital launchers that can rival SpaceX's Falcon fleet.
The new model, dubbed New Glenn 9×4, will feature nine engines on its first stage and four engines on its second stage, adding two engines per stage compared to the current design. This extra power is designed to meet the surging demand for satellite launches, offering customers a versatile option for a range of missions.
The announcement follows New Glenn's second mission last week on November 15, marking a key milestone for Blue Origin as it works to establish a reliable cadence of flights. By developing a constellation of rockets with varying capacities, Blue Origin hopes to attract commercial satellite operators, governments, and research teams worldwide.
Industry analysts say the move signals a new chapter in the intensifying competition between Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk, whose SpaceX has dominated the market with its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets. With both companies racing to lower costs and increase launch rates, satellite operators stand to benefit from more options and potentially faster turnaround times.
For young global citizens and tech enthusiasts tracking the space race, the New Glenn 9×4 represents a fresh contender in an evolving market. As Blue Origin moves forward with detailed designs and testing schedules, the world will watch how this new variant shapes the future of orbital access.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
