Key Takeaways
- Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket first stage was rolled out to Cape Canaveral for upcoming launch preparations.
- The mission will send NASA’s ESCAPADE probes to Mars, focusing on the planet’s atmosphere and solar interactions.
- Earlier, Blue Origin successfully completed its 15th human spaceflight mission with its New Shepard vehicle.
New Glenn Rocket Prepares for Launch
Blue Origin has made significant strides with its New Glenn rocket, as the company rolled out the first stage to the launch pad at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on October 8, 2025. This move is part of the preparations for an anticipated launch later this month or in November, which will involve NASA’s twin ESCAPADE (Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamics Explorers) probes destined for Mars.
When fully stacked, the New Glenn rocket measures approximately 320 feet (98 meters) tall. Similar to SpaceX’s Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy, it is designed with a reusable first stage. The rocket made its inaugural flight in January, achieving orbit, but the attempt to land the first stage on a sea platform at that time was unsuccessful.
The upcoming mission is particularly significant as it marks an operational flight. The ESCAPADE probes, affectionately named Blue and Gold, were constructed by Rocket Lab, a California-based aerospace manufacturer. They arrived in Florida on September 22 and will study Mars’ atmosphere, particularly its interaction with solar wind and other space weather phenomena.
Additionally, October 8 was an important date for Blue Origin beyond the New Glenn preparations. Earlier that morning, the company successfully conducted its 15th human spaceflight mission using the New Shepard vehicle. This launch, which originated from Blue Origin’s West Texas site, marked the 36th overall launch of the New Shepard system.
The dual accomplishments highlight Blue Origin’s ongoing efforts in both crewed and uncrewed space missions, underscoring its commitment to expanding access to space.
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