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Blue Origin rocket grounded after satellite mishap
Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket failed to place a satellite from AST SpaceMobile into the planned orbit on Sunday, due to insufficient engine thrust. The incident prompted FAA oversight and a mishap investigation, with AST SpaceMobile’s stock dropping the following day as customers re-evaluated the failure. Blue Origin aims to learn from the data and resume flight operations as investigations proceed.
Why It Matters
The setback affects industry plans to expand low-Earth orbit connectivity and could influence competition among satellite internet providers, including TerraWave and Leo, in relation to Starlink.
Timeline
4 Events
April 20, 2026: FAA to determine when New Glenn can launch again
April 20, 2026
The FAA stated it will determine, based on the investigation findings, when New Glenn can be launched again. The agency will oversee the Blue Origin-led investigation and approve the final report, including any corrective actions.
April 20, 2026: Blue Origin confirms investigation aims to improve flight readiness
April 20, 2026
Blue Origin chief executive Dave Limp said the investigation will allow the company to learn from the data and implement the improvements needed to quickly return to flight operations.
April 20, 2026: AST SpaceMobile stock falls after launch failure; FAA oversight announced
April 20, 2026
AST SpaceMobile's share price fell by more than 6% on Monday following the Sunday launch setback. The FAA announced that Blue Origin will conduct a mishap investigation, with the agency overseeing the investigation and approving the final report, including any corrective actions.
April 19, 2026: Blue Origin's New Glenn mission fails to reach planned orbit
April 19, 2026
On Sunday, Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, in its third flight, failed to place the AST SpaceMobile satellite into the intended orbit due to a lack of sufficient thrust in an engine. The satellite, meant for low Earth orbit to enable mobile connectivity, will be unusable because it was not dropped into the required orbital position.