Blue Origin To Build Second Launch Pad For Scaled-Up New Glenn
Credit: Blue Origin
In addition to the launch pad itself, the project includes a vertical rocket assembly facility and a payload processing facility. In October 2025, the US Space Force awarded Blue Origin $78.2 million for the latter facility.
The existing LC-36A pad is currently being restored following the explosion of New Glenn on May 28 during a hot fire test. It is from this pad that Blue Origin plans to resume launches of the current version of the New Glenn 7×2 rocket. Company CEO Dave Limp stated on August 12 that a return flight in 2026 remains the top priority. The New Glenn 7×2 is equipped with seven BE-4 engines in the first stage and two BE-3U engines in the second stage. The future New Glenn 9×4 will have nine and four engines, respectively.
The refurbishment of LC-36A simultaneously requires a change in the rocket’s processing scheme. Blue Origin is moving to a hybrid horizontal-vertical concept: the first stage will be delivered horizontally to the pad and then lifted into a vertical position, while the second stage and payload fairing will be delivered separately vertically and installed on the first stage by crane. The company is practicing this approach at another Cape Canaveral pad, LC-11.
“Restoring LC-36A and resuming launches this year remains our priority,” said Dave Limp, CEO of Blue Origin. He added that the company is already practicing the new rocket transportation and assembly process using mockups, which will help quickly organize launch preparations at new sites.
