Nasa sticks by 2027 launch of next mission despite Blue Origin rocket explosion

NASA is proceeding with its Artemis III mission launch schedule for 2027, despite Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket exploding during an engine test on May 28. The incident, described as a 'significant anomaly' by Blue Origin’s John Couluris, has not altered NASA’s commitment, with Artemis lead Jeremy Parsons stating that setbacks are 'a learning opportunity' and NASA is actively supporting Blue Origin to resolve issues. The Artemis III mission will involve four astronauts: Andre Douglas, Frank Rubio, and Randy Bresnik from NASA, and Luca Parmitano from the European Space Agency. Their primary task is to test low Earth orbit docking procedures between NASA’s Orion spacecraft and commercial lunar landers, developed by Blue Origin and SpaceX, ahead of a planned 2028 Moon landing. Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket, named after astronaut John Glenn, plays a key role in the mission’s heavy-lift requirements. Couluris noted that NASA’s response to the anomaly has been 'extraordinary,' with progress made in investigations and cleanup efforts at Launch Complex 36a. Rebuilding will begin once cleanup is complete, alongside continued construction at Launch Complex 36b. NASA’s Jared Isaacman, along with SpaceX’s Jessica Jensen, expressed excitement about returning humans to the Moon, with Jensen emphasizing the goal of 'staying' this time. The Artemis program, split into three phases, aims to develop technologies for future deep-space missions, including Mars, while also establishing a lunar base within six years. Parsons reassured that NASA is working closely with all partners, including SpaceX and Blue Origin, to ensure mission success. Couluris highlighted Blue Origin’s determination, stating the company will be measured by how it responds to challenges, calling the Moon 'the eighth continent.' Despite the setback, both agencies remain focused on advancing human lunar exploration.