A Blue Origin New Glenn rocket exploded during a static fire test at Cape Canaveral, Florida, on May 28, 2026, destroying the rocket and damaging the launch pad. The incident threatens NASA's Artemis III mission, which had planned to use Blue Origin's Blue Moon MK2 lander.
Key facts: - The explosion occurred during a routine engine test, destroying the rocket and transporter erector tower. - One of two lightning towers at Launch Complex 36 was knocked over.
- Blue Origin has no backup launch site for New Glenn, potentially delaying its lunar lander program. - NASA may have to rely solely on SpaceX's Starship for upcoming Artemis missions.
The company is investigating the root cause, and other launches from Cape Canaveral continued normally.