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Blue Origin Rocket Fails to Orbit, FAA Launches Investigation

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

On April 19, 2026, Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket launched AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 7 satellite from Cape Canaveral, Florida, but failed to achieve the correct orbit, leading to the satellite's de-orbit.
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the incident due to insufficient thrust from one of the rocket's upper stage engines.
Despite this setback, Blue Origin plans to proceed with satellite launches and is preparing for a test flight of its Blue Moon spacecraft for NASA's Artemis program later this year.
The cost of the satellite will be covered by insurance.

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Story summary

On April 19, 2026, Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket launched AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 7 satellite from Cape Canaveral, Florida, but failed to achieve the correct orbit, leading to the satellite's de-orbit.
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the incident due to insufficient thrust from one of the rocket's upper stage engines.
Despite this setback, Blue Origin plans to proceed with satellite launches and is preparing for a test flight of its Blue Moon spacecraft for NASA's Artemis program later this year.
The cost of the satellite will be covered by insurance.