Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket set for first launch on January 13

Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket is scheduled to lift off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
An undated image of Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket. — Blue Origin
An undated image of Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket. — Blue Origin 

Blue Origin is gearing up for a historic moment as it prepares to launch its first New Glenn rocket on Monday, January 13, 2025. 

This debut mission marks a major milestone for the company, showcasing its advanced technology and ambition to rival other space giants like SpaceX. 

Initially planned for January 10, the mission faced delays due to rough offshore weather. However, weather concerns remain for Monday’s launch as well, with a 50% chance of favourable conditions. 

Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket mission

The New Glenn rocket, standing 320 feet tall (98 metres), features a reusable first stage, similar to SpaceX’s Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets. 

The mission, called NG-1, will carry a test payload: the Blue Ring spacecraft platform. While it won’t deploy any satellites, the mission aims to validate the platform’s communication, telemetry, and tracking systems during its six-hour journey. 

The first stage will attempt a landing on a recovery ship, Landing Platform Vessel 1, nicknamed Jacklyn, after Jeff Bezos’ mother. 

Moreover, debut flights like NG-1 often face challenges, but Blue Origin views this mission as a learning opportunity. "It’s time to fly," said Blue Origin’s SVP for New Glenn, Jarrett Jones. "No matter what happens, we’ll learn and apply that knowledge to future launches." 

Blue Origin’s New Glenn launch schedule

The rocket is scheduled to lift off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station during a three-hour window starting at 1:00am EST (0600 GMT). You can watch the launch live on Blue Origin’s website, with coverage beginning at 12:00am EST (0500 GMT).