SCIENCE

Mars Mission Takes Off Amid Solar Storm Chaos

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, USAFri Nov 14 2025
Blue Origin is all set to give it another shot, launching its massive New Glenn rocket from Florida. This time, it's carrying NASA's ESCAPADE mission to Mars. The plan was delayed twice before, first because of bad weather and a random ship, and then due to a massive solar storm. Even though the storm is still around, Blue Origin seems confident enough to proceed. Launching during a solar storm is risky business. These storms can mess with the rocket's communication and navigation systems, and even change how the rocket flies. But Blue Origin thinks the risks are low enough to go ahead. They'll keep an eye on the weather and might cancel at the last minute if things look bad. If all goes well, the rocket will release two probes headed to Mars. These probes will study how the solar wind affects Mars' atmosphere. Blue Origin also wants to land the rocket's booster on a ship called Jacklyn. They tried this before but didn't succeed. If they pull it off this time, it's a big deal for Blue Origin and their future missions. This launch is crucial for Blue Origin. Success could mean more NASA contracts and a stronger position in the space industry. But if things go wrong, it could hurt their reputation. Let's hope they get it right this time.

questions

    Is NASA really launching probes to Mars, or is this a front for a classified mission to study the Sun's recent activity?
    What specific measures is Blue Origin taking to mitigate the risks associated with launching during a geomagnetic storm?
    What alternative launch strategies could Blue Origin consider to avoid the risks posed by space weather?

actions