New Glenn’s first-stage rocket booster experienced a setback during its attempted landing on a seafaring platform in the ocean. Blue Origin, the aerospace company behind the mission, had prepared observers for the possibility of challenges in executing this complex maneuver on the initial try.
Despite the missed mark, Blue Origin's VP of in-space systems, Ariane Cornell, emphasized the ambitious nature of the landing attempt. Cornell acknowledged the difficulty of achieving a successful booster landing, particularly on the inaugural flight. She highlighted the value of the data gathered from such a mission, underscoring the importance of testing the complete mission profile.
Cornell expressed the primary goal of the mission as safely reaching orbit, with any additional accomplishments viewed as supplementary achievements. The company's focus remained on the successful completion of the mission, recognizing the inherent risks and complexities involved in spaceflight.
