Blue Origin Rebuilds New Glenn Launch Pad for Targeted 2026 Return

Blue Origin is rebuilding launch infrastructure at Launch Complex 36 in Florida and preparing the site for New Glenn’s targeted return-to-flight mission. CEO Dave Limp said the company had restored the launch bridge and reinstalled the main water piping, while crews continued work on the vehicle access tower.

Key details

• The May 28, 2026, hotfire test at Launch Complex 36 was followed by repairs to launch-support equipment.
• Limp said the tank farm, Integration Facility, vehicle access tower, and water tower remained in good condition.
• Blue Origin was developing a hybrid horizontal-and-vertical integration approach for the 9x4 New Glenn configuration, avoiding a replacement transporter-erector.
• By October 11, crews had returned the tower’s first two modules to the structure. The upgrade includes additional floors, guard rails, and cryogenic-propellant ground equipment.
• Limp said the company had restored the launch bridge, salvaged most of its structure, and reinstalled the main water piping. Two rainbirds were visible as work continued on the water-deluge system, which protects ground infrastructure from the rocket’s seven BE-4 engines.

Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp said crews had restacked the first two modules of New Glenn’s vehicle access tower by October 11.

Why it matters

Launch Complex 36’s tower, access equipment, and water-deluge system support New Glenn’s preparation and launch. Blue Origin’s planned integration approach and ongoing repairs describe how the company is preparing the Florida site for its next mission.

What happens next

Blue Origin is targeting December 2026 for a New Glenn mission carrying a Blue Ring spacecraft. Limp said the company aims to return to flight by year-end; the material gives no more specific mission date.