Taller than the Saturn V, the new New Glenn 9×4 rocket aims for mega-constellations, lunar missions, and deep space ambitions
A Giant Leap for Blue Origin
Blue Origin has pulled the curtain back on a super-heavy variant of its New Glenn rocket, marking a bold new direction for Jeff Bezos’ space venture.
- Dubbed New Glenn 9×4, this upgraded rocket is taller than NASA’s iconic Saturn V, making it one of the largest ever revealed.
- The announcement follows a successful second flight of the current New Glenn, signaling momentum for Blue Origin’s ambitions.
Powering Up: From 7×2 to 9×4
The super-heavy New Glenn doesn’t just grow in size—it packs more thrust and lift capability.
- The booster stage now includes nine BE-4 engines, up from seven.
- The upper stage increases to four engines, compared to two on the standard New Glenn.
- This configuration, the 9×4, will operate alongside the existing 7×2 version—not replace it.
Together, these engines give the rocket the ability to lift over 70 metric tons to low-Earth orbit (LEO)—just below the 100-ton capacity of SpaceX’s current Starship.
Designed for Deep Space, Defense, and More
Beyond sheer size and thrust, the new New Glenn brings expanded mission potential.
- It features a larger payload fairing, enabling it to launch heavier or bulkier payloads into orbit.
- Target applications include mega-constellations, lunar transport, deep space missions, and national security programs like Golden Dome.
- In released renderings, Blue Origin hints at its lunar goals with a dramatic image of the New Glenn 9×4 launching toward a prominent moon.
Upgrades for the 7×2 Version Too
While the spotlight is on the new rocket, the existing New Glenn 7×2 isn’t being left behind.
- It now boasts increased total thrust.
- The version will feature reusable fairings, enhancing sustainability and turnaround speed.
- Several performance optimizations aim to support faster launch cadences, crucial for both commercial and government clients.
A Space Race in Full Swing
The upgrade puts Blue Origin squarely in the competitive field with SpaceX, which is currently testing even more powerful variants of Starship.
- With NASA’s Artemis program and future lunar landings on the horizon, both companies are vying for contracts and relevance.
- Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp hinted that the company may soon attempt a Blue Moon Mark 1 uncrewed lunar lander mission, emphasizing its lunar intent.
Looking Ahead
While no specific launch date for the 9×4 has been confirmed, Blue Origin is targeting early 2026 for its next big flight, likely a 7×2 mission.
As the space launch landscape evolves, the New Glenn 9×4 positions Blue Origin as a formidable contender in heavy-lift capabilities—promising a future of more ambitious missions beyond Earth’s orbit.
