Blue Origin New Glenn Rocket Explodes on Cape Canaveral Launch Pad During Test

A Blue Origin New Glenn rocket exploded during a hotfire test on its launch pad at Cape Canaveral, Florida, around 21:00 local time. Footage captured the rocket erupting into a significant fireball, engulfing the surrounding area.

Blue Origin, founded by Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos, confirmed an "anomaly" during the test, stating that all personnel were accounted for and safe. Brevard County Emergency Management assured the public there was no threat to safety.

Jeff Bezos remarked, "It's too early to know the root cause but we're already working to find it. Very rough day, but we'll rebuild whatever needs rebuilding and get back to flying. It's worth it."

The US Space Force and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are collaborating with Blue Origin to analyse data and determine the precise cause. The FAA clarified that this specific test was not subject to its licensing activities and did not affect air traffic.

This incident follows a previous "mishap" last month involving a New Glenn rocket, which was grounded by the FAA after failing to deliver a satellite from AST SpaceMobile into its intended orbit. The company had achieved a successful launch and reusable booster landing in November.