Comments on: FAA clears New Glenn for launch https://behindtheblack.com/behind-the-black/faa-clears-new-glenn-for-launch/ Sat, 23 May 2026 20:21:21 +0000 hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 By: Dick Eagleson https://behindtheblack.com/behind-the-black/faa-clears-new-glenn-for-launch/#comment-1632117 Sat, 23 May 2026 20:21:21 +0000 https://behindtheblack.com/?p=123934#comment-1632117 An “off-nominal thermal condition” sounds like a euphemism for some sort of energetic “observation” such as an engine bay fire or explosion. Whatever it was, there will either be a quick and easy fix for it or there won’t.

The pressure Blue is under is not just to launch again with reasonable dispatch but to also do so successfully. Hurrying will avail Blue naught if it stubs its toe again in the process.

I wish Blue well, but I also have decidedly limited expectations of it for what remains of the current year. If we don’t see at least two more successful no-asterisk New Glenn launch missions by year’s end – one of which needs to be a successful test of the Blue Moon Mk-1 lunar lander – then I think Blue will be a no-show for Artemis 3.

]]> By: Nate P https://behindtheblack.com/behind-the-black/faa-clears-new-glenn-for-launch/#comment-1632116 Sat, 23 May 2026 19:51:33 +0000 https://behindtheblack.com/?p=123934#comment-1632116 I recall Dave Limp saying last year they wanted to hit double-digit launches for 2026, and that they’re completing one New Glenn every month, but I’m skeptical they’ll make it this year. Perhaps next, that would still be good long term, if not so good for their contractual obligations.

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