Blue Origin announced technical changes to New Glenn and reported on the development of a new super heavy-lift vehicle

After the last launch of the New Glenn rocket, Blue Origin announced updates to its engines and design, as well as the development of a new super heavy-lift vehicle, New Glenn 9x4. These changes aim to expand launch capabilities to low Earth orbit and the Moon.

What is known

According to the company, the thrust of the first stage engines will increase from 3.9 to 4.5 million pounds (≈17.3–20.0 MN), and the second stage from 320,000 to 400,000 pounds (≈1.42–1.78 MN). The rocket will also receive a reusable fairing and upgraded fuel tanks with reduced production costs.

The new carrier New Glenn 9x4 will have nine engines on the first stage and four on the second. The company reports the rocket will be able to deliver over 70 tons to low Earth orbit, over 14 tons to geostationary orbit, and over 20 tons on a trajectory to the Moon. An image published by Dave Limp on social network X shows that New Glenn 9x4 surpasses the Saturn V rocket in size.

Blue Origin and SpaceX are participating in NASA's selection for future lunar missions. The company has announced plans to land an unmanned spacecraft on the Moon in 2026.

Source: Blue Origin