Valve Anomaly Causes Rocket Explosion, Prompts Fixes

An investigation into the May 28, 2026, explosion of a Blue Origin New Glenn rocket revealed the anomaly originated from a liquid oxygen valve in one of the first stage's BE-4 engines. This failure resulted in the rocket's destruction and severe damage to its launch pad. Blue Origin is implementing modifications to the valve, which are expected to be completed by the end of August 2026 and can be retrofitted to existing engines.

Because the BE-4 engine is also utilized in the first stage of United Launch Alliance's Vulcan Centaur rocket, this issue could pose a challenge for ULA. Vulcan's last flight in February 2026 experienced an unrelated anomaly with a solid rocket booster, which Northrop Grumman is addressing with redesigned motors. ULA has not yet detailed the impact of the BE-4 investigation on Vulcan's return-to-flight schedule.