BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – Blue Origin has received the green light from Patrick Space Force Base to start evaluating the damage at Launch Complex 36, following an explosion of its New Glenn rocket last week.
In a virtual briefing held on Tuesday, Space Force representatives revealed that emergency protocols were swiftly activated immediately after Thursday night’s blast. They stated that the incident provided a real-world scenario to test the procedures they had meticulously rehearsed before the launch.
Authorities detailed that teams from fire rescue, security, public affairs, safety, and command staff responded to the incident. Emergency crews quickly implemented accountability measures, confirming the safety of all personnel within half an hour of the explosion.
Patrick Space Force Base officials reported that debris from the incident was discovered up to half a mile away from the launch pad.
The strategic location of Launch Complex 36 was instrumental in minimizing potential damage. Situated at the southern end of the Cape Canaveral launch site, it is distanced from other active facilities, allowing emergency teams to concentrate on handling the situation and firefighting.
By Sunday afternoon, the site was deemed safe, enabling Blue Origin teams to proceed with their damage assessment efforts.
Blue Origin has indicated that initial assessments suggest the rocket’s fuel tanks remained intact despite the explosion.
The Space Force said it remains too early to determine whether facilities not operated by Blue Origin sustained damage. However, officials confirmed that pressure from the blast damaged windows at Hangar C and that inspection teams are continuing to evaluate nearby structures.
Environmental monitoring is also ongoing. Officials said a restoration advisory board is conducting soil and water sampling in the area. If contamination or hazardous materials are detected, mitigation efforts will be implemented to address any environmental concerns.
Patrick Space Force Base also said a hotline remains available for residents to report debris that may wash ashore along the Space Coast. As of Tuesday’s update, officials said they were not aware of any reports being submitted through the hotline.
