Blue Origin’s Heavy-Lift Rocket to Take First Flight in Late 2024

AST SpaceMobile has chosen Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket to deploy its new Block 2 BlueBird satellites, aiming to build out a space-based cellular broadband network. The first launches will take place over multiple years from Blue Origin’s Launch Complex 36 in Cape Canaveral, Florida.

New Glenn, named after astronaut John Glenn, stands over 320 feet tall and is designed to carry heavy payloads into low Earth orbit (LEO). It has a seven-meter payload fairing, which allows it to transport multiple devices per mission. This capability is particularly essential for AST SpaceMobile’s large BlueBird satellites, optimizing coverage and reducing the number of launches needed for AST’s planned network.

“New Glenn’s performance and unprecedented capacity within its seven-meter fairing enables us to deploy more of our Block 2 BlueBird satellites in orbit, helping provide continuous cellular broadband service coverage across some of the most in-demand cellular markets globally,” explained Abel Avellan, Founder and CEO of AST SpaceMobile.

The rocket’s reusable first stage is powered by seven BE-4 engines that run on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and are designed for at least 25 missions. The second stage, driven by two BE-3U engines, ensures that payloads reach their intended LEO positions. This setup provides Blue Origin with a cost-effective solution for launching satellite constellations, which require consistent and reliable launches over time to achieve global coverage.

"It’s an honor to support AST SpaceMobile’s deployment of their next generation BlueBird satellites, which will expand connectivity across the globe and positively impact many lives,” stated Dave Limp, CEO of Blue Origin. “New Glenn is purpose-built for these kinds of innovative and ambitious missions.”

While New Glenn has yet to make its inaugural flight, Blue Origin aims to position it as a strong contender in the growing market for LEO satellite deployments. The rocket is on track to launch later this year.

FMI: www.ast-science.com