Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket launch was delayed once again.
The rocket was expected to make its very first trip from Central Florida on Monday, marking the company's first National Security Space Launch (NSSL) certification flight.
However, after facing a vehicle subsystem issue, the launch was scrubbed.
The mission, dubbed NG-1, is an important step for Blue Origin as the company seeks to advance its spaceflight technology and capabilities.
Here's everything you need to know about the New Glenn launch:
Who is Blue Origin?
Blue Origin is a privately funded aerospace company founded by Jeff Bezos. The company says they are focused on developing reusable rockets, human spaceflight capabilities and advanced space technologies.
When is the New Glenn launch?
The New Glenn rocket was scheduled to launch on Jan. 13. However, the company said they faced a vehicle subsystem issue and will review opportunities for their next launch attempt.
The launch was initially scheduled for last week but was postponed due to the "high sea state in the Atlantic."
The launch was pushed to Sunday but postponed again because the sea state conditions were still unfavorable for booster landing.
What is the purpose of the NG-1 mission?
The primary payload for NG-1 is the Blue Ring Pathfinder, which will undergo tests of its core flight systems, ground operations and overall capabilities.
In addition, the company will try to land its booster offshore in an attempt to test its reusability.
"Our key objective is to reach orbit safely," said Jarrett Jones, the senior vice president of New Glenn. "Landing the booster on our first attempt offshore in the Atlantic is an ambitious goal, but we're aiming for it. No matter what happens, we’ll learn, refine, and apply that knowledge to our next launch."
The mission is part of the Defense Innovation Unit's (DIU) Orbital Logistics prototype effort.
New Glenn's engineers have been preparing rigorously for this launch, with the company emphasizing that no amount of ground testing can fully replicate the experience of an actual flight.
“We’ve prepared thoroughly, but flying this rocket is the ultimate test," Jones added. "It’s time to fly."
How big is the New Glenn rocket?
The New Glenn rocket stands 320 feet tall and is powered by seven engines capable of generating more than 3.8 million pounds of thrust at liftoff.
Where to watch the NG-1 inaugural launch?
The launch should be easy to see anywhere along the beaches of the Space Coast — mainly because of the rocket's size.
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