Blue Origin successfully executed its third launch of the New Glenn rocket today, sending an AST SpaceMobile satellite into orbit, despite the satellite not reaching its intended destination. The launch occurred at 7:25 a.m. ET from Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
The rocket's first-stage booster, known as “Never Tell Me the Odds,” made a triumphant return, landing on the floating platform named Jacklyn in the Atlantic Ocean. This booster had previously been used for a NASA mission to Mars last November and was refurbished for today's flight.
While Blue Origin confirmed that the satellite, designated BlueBird 7, powered on successfully, it was reported to be in an off-nominal orbit. The company is currently evaluating the situation and plans to provide further updates. This mission builds on the company’s efforts to enhance its orbital capabilities, following earlier launches that tested communication systems for its Blue Ring platform.