By Simgenur Akbolat
ISTANBUL (AA) - Blue Origin Enterprises, the private US space technology company founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos, announced comprehensive upgrades Thursday to its New Glenn rocket, designed to significantly increase payload capacity, launch frequency and reliability.
The enhancements are set to be integrated into the rocket's design across its propulsion, structures, avionics and reusability systems, with roll-out beginning with the NG-3 mission, the company said in a statement.
The most significant changes involve increased engine power across both rocket stages.
The thrust generated by the seven BE-4 booster engines on the first stage is increasing from 3.9 million lbf (17.219 kN) to 4.5 million lbf (19.929 kN). Blue Origin attributes the boost to propellant subcooling, which raises the thrust capability from 550,000 lbf to a target of 640,000 lbf per engine.
The thrust of the two BE-3Us powering the upper stage is also substantially increasing, moving from the original design of 320,000 lbf (1,423 kN) to 400,000 lbf (1,779 kN) for subsequent missions.
The company said the performance increases will immediately benefit customers already scheduled to use New Glenn for launches to destinations, including the moon and low-Earth orbit and national security projects such as the US’ Golden Dome.
Blue Origin detailed vehicle improvements focused on improving turnaround time and lowering costs. The additions include implementing a reusable fairing to support increased flight rates and an updated, lower-cost tank design.
The company noted its roadmap includes the New Glenn 9x4, a new super-heavy class rocket intended for missions requiring additional capacity and affordability.
New Glenn completed its second mission last week with a launch and its booster safely landed on a platform at sea.