Graphic: Blue Origin
NASA has decided to forego an attempt to launch the twin ESCAPADE in October aboard Blue Origin’s New Glenn on its maiden flight:
NASA announced Friday it will not fuel the two ESCAPADE (Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamics Explorers) spacecraft at this time, foregoing the mission’s upcoming October launch window. While future launch opportunities are under review, the next possible earliest launch date is spring 2025.
The agency’s decision to stand down was based on a review of launch preparations and discussions with Blue Origin, the Federal Aviation Administration, and Space Launch Delta 45 Range Safety Organization, as well as NASA’s Launch Services Program and Science Mission Directorate.
NASA
In their press release announcing the delay, NASA also stated that they are exploring opportunities to launch the ESCAPADE satellites “no earlier than the Spring of 2025.”
Credits: James Rattray/Rocket Lab USA
“This is an important mission for NASA, and it’s critical we have sufficient margin in our prelaunch work to ensure we are ready to fly a tight planetary window,” said Bradley Smith, NASA’s Launch Services Office director at NASA Headquarters.
New Glenn Maiden Launch Shifts Right to NET November
Blue Origin stated on X.com today that New Glenn’s first launch will now be in November and will carry their Blue Ring satellite.
Rocket Lab Reacts
Rocket Lab, who built the two ESCAPADE probes, said this after the announcement:
Author: Charles Boyer
NASA kid from Cocoa Beach, FL, born of Project Apollo parents and family. I’m a writer and photographer sharing the story of spaceflight from the Eastern Range here in Florida.
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