regional: Blue Origin readies New Glenn rocket to launch 48 Amazon

Kent, Wash.-based Blue Origin is preparing its heavy-lift New Glenn rocket for a critical return to flight, cleared by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to launch 48 satellites for Amazon’s expanding Leo broadband constellation. This mission, designated NG-4 for the rocket and LN-01 for the payload, marks a pivotal moment for both companies founded by Jeff Bezos, especially coming five weeks after New Glenn experienced its first launch failure.

The upcoming launch represents the first time Blue Origin’s rockets will carry satellites for Amazon Leo, forging a new operational link between the tech giant and the aerospace venture. It is also set to establish a new record for the number of Leo broadband satellites deployed on a single mission, accelerating Amazon’s ambitious goal to expand its orbital internet service.

Blue Origin’s CEO Dave Limp expressed pride in supporting the Leo team, noting his prior role as the Amazon executive in charge of the program (then known as Project Kuiper) before joining Blue Origin in 2023. The first-stage booster for this NG-4 mission has been christened “No, It’s Necessary,” a nod to a line from the movie “Interstellar” that evokes a bold spirit of space exploration.

The FAA’s clearance last week follows a thorough investigation into last month’s unsuccessful launch of an AST SpaceMobile satellite from Florida. The inquiry, led by Blue Origin, concluded that the mishap was caused by a cryogenic leak that subsequently froze a hydraulic line. This led to a thrust anomaly during the second-stage engine burn, disrupting the mission.

In response, Blue Origin identified and implemented nine corrective actions designed to prevent a recurrence of the malfunction. With these measures in place, the FAA authorized the company to resume flight operations. An FAA advisory suggests the launch could occur as early as next week, signaling a rapid turnaround for the aerospace firm.

This mission is crucial for Amazon Leo, which currently has just over 300 satellites in orbit but aims to deploy thousands more within the next three years. While the initial license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandated over 1,600 satellites by June 30, Amazon is seeking a two-year extension to that deadline. The deployment pace is expected to double in the coming year, with heavy-lift rockets like New Glenn, ULA’s Vulcan, and Arianespace’s Ariane 6 playing vital roles.

Amazon has already reserved 24 New Glenn rocket launches specifically for its satellite deployment missions, underscoring its long-term commitment to Blue Origin. The company aims to begin phasing in commercial satellite broadband internet service as early as this summer, starting in mid-northern and mid-southern latitudes, with coverage expanding as more satellites become operational. Pricing for the service has not yet been announced.

The satellite broadband market is currently dominated by SpaceX’s Starlink network, which boasts over 10,000 satellites in low Earth orbit and more than 12 million subscribers worldwide. Interestingly, SpaceX also serves as a launch provider for Amazon Leo, demonstrating how even direct competitors can collaborate within the complex space industry landscape.

In related developments, Amazon this week detailed its plan to acquire Globalstar and its direct-to-device satellite constellation in an FCC filing. This $10.8 billion deal, expected to close in 2027 pending FCC approval, would see Apple transfer its 20% stake in Globalstar to Amazon. This system would complement Amazon Leo’s broadband service by offering global direct-to-device mobile connectivity. Meanwhile, the FAA is also overseeing an investigation into a recent flight test anomaly involving SpaceX’s Starship V3 rocket, where a Super Heavy booster failed to fire properly, leading to its breakup upon re-entry.

FAQ

Q: What caused Blue Origin’s previous New Glenn launch failure?

A: The previous New Glenn launch failure was attributed to a cryogenic leak that froze a hydraulic line, leading to a thrust anomaly during the second-stage engine burn.

Q: How many Amazon Leo satellites will Blue Origin launch on this mission?

A: Blue Origin is set to launch 48 Amazon Leo satellites on this mission, marking a new high for the number of Leo broadband satellites launched on a single mission.

Q: When does Amazon Leo plan to begin commercial service?

A: Amazon Leo aims to start phasing in commercial satellite broadband internet service as soon as this summer, initially in mid-northern and mid-southern latitudes, with expanded coverage as more satellites are deployed.