Blue Origin was forced to cancel the second flight of its New Glenn heavy-lift rocket after a combination of weather issues, minor technical glitches, and an unexpected cruise ship drifting into the coastal exclusion zone off Florida’s Space Coast.

The launch, initially expected to proceed despite marginal weather, was scrubbed at the last minute when range safety officials confirmed that a cruise ship heading north toward Jacksonville had entered the restricted area. The vessel reportedly did not anticipate that the launch window would extend to the final minute, placing it within the safety boundary as countdown operations neared completion.

Although two ships were detected near the safety range, only one entered the zone and triggered the automatic stand-down. Observers said the ship’s northbound track along the coastline brought it too close to the hazard area just as Blue Origin was preparing for liftoff.

Beyond the ship’s interference, the launch team also faced thick cloud rules, upper-level winds, and minor pad equipment issues, any of which could have delayed liftoff. Blue Origin confirmed that it is working with the FAA and Space Force to secure the next available window, expected within days, once weather and range conditions permit.

This mission holds significant weight for Blue Origin’s reusability and commercial goals. After New Glenn’s inaugural flight reached orbit but failed to recover its booster, this second attempt was expected to demonstrate a successful first-stage ocean platform landing.

Photo Credit: Ben Oliva