Blue Origin loses AST SpaceMobile satellite after New Glenn upper stage failure
Updated
Updated · Ars Technica · Apr 24
Blue Origin loses AST SpaceMobile satellite after New Glenn upper stage failure
9 articles · Updated · Ars Technica · Apr 24
The third launch of Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket saw its first orbital payload loss, with the AST SpaceMobile satellite stranded in low orbit due to a suspected valve issue in the upper stage.
While the rocket's booster successfully landed at sea, the upper stage malfunction prevented proper satellite deployment, marking a significant setback for Blue Origin's orbital ambitions.
This incident highlights ongoing technical challenges in commercial spaceflight and comes as other spaceport projects, like Canada's Maritime Launch Services, face scrutiny over environmental and operational concerns.
Will Blue Origin's first payload loss delay Amazon's critical Project Kuiper satellite launches?
Blue Origin's rocket failed, but its booster landed. Was the mission a success or a failure?
How will AST SpaceMobile launch its 90-satellite network after this New Glenn failure?
After grounding New Glenn, how will the FAA balance safety with commercial space race pressures?
With a firm losing $47M, why is Canada investing $200M for a 'sovereign' spaceport?
A spaceport was approved using toxic fuel plans. Why is there no new environmental review?