Jeff Bezos' New Glenn Rocket Explodes During Test at Cape Canaveral

Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin suffered a major setback Thursday when its New Glenn rocket exploded during a static fire test at Cape Canaveral.

The 320-foot rocket was set to carry 48 Amazon Leo satellites into orbit next week. No satellites were on board. The blast severely damaged the launch site, including a lighting tower and a transport vehicle, which are considered beyond repair.

Bezos posted on X: "Very rough day, but we'll rebuild whatever needs rebuilding and get back to flying."

The explosion appears to have originated in the first-stage engine section, which uses seven methane-fueled engines. That stage is designed to be reusable up to 25 times.

The accident threatens Blue Origin's plans for a monthly launch schedule and could impact its $188 million NASA contract to launch two moon rovers.