Blue Origin Rocket Deploys Satellite Into Wrong Orbit

WASHINGTON, April 20 (Bernama-dpa) -- Blue Origin's New Glenn heavy-lift rocket deployed a satellite into the wrong orbit during its third launch, the space company founded by Jeff Bezos said on Sunday, German Press Agency (dpa) reported.

The firm said the circumstances were still under investigation.

"We are currently assessing and will update when we have more detailed information," Blue Origin said.

The rocket lifted off as planned from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, marking the first time a previously flown booster was reused. The booster successfully landed on a platform in the Atlantic after separation.

However, the satellite, named Blue Bird 7, was placed into an orbit lower than intended, AST SpaceMobile, the satellite's manufacturer, confirmed.

New Glenn reached space on its maiden flight in January 2025.

On its second mission about 10 months later, it carried two NASA Mars orbiters into space.

Blue Origin aims to use the New Glenn system to compete with Elon Musk's SpaceX, which currently dominates the commercial launch market.

--BERNAMA-dpa