Blue Origin New Glenn rolls out to launchpad for pre-launch tests

Blue Origin today shared details of the New Glenn rolling out to the launchpad to prepare for several pre-launch tests. The launch vehicle rolled out on a transport mechanism that resembles several long mechanical centipedes.

New Glenn is 320 ft tall and has seven-meter fairings that can carry heavy payloads. There are two stages and four actuated aerodynamics controls for altitude adjustment during the first stage of descent and landing.

The first stage of New Glenn uses seven BE-4 engines loaded with liquid oxygen (LOX)/liquified natural gas (LNG). Each of these BE-4 engines is reusable and generates 550,000 lbf (2,450 kN) thrust at sea level with deep-throttle capability.

The first stage also has an art module with six hydraulically-actuated legs to support and secure the first stage during landing.

The engine was used in the first stage of the United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan vehicle launched earlier this year. The second stage uses two BE-3U engines to generate 160,000 lbf (710 kN) of thrust in a vacuum.

It has higher thrust and performance in space means getting to achieve orbit. It fuels liquid hydrogen and cryogenic rocket engines.

Blue Origin’s New Glenn is built and assembled in a factory located in Exploration Park just outside the gates of Kennedy Space Center. For now, there’s no information available about the launch date of New Glenn.

(source)