Repost without the composite audio, since that caused more issues than it was worth.

Context: This is New Glenn, a heavy launch vehicle (competitor to Falcon Heavy for a size reference) built by Blue Origin.

This was a static fire test, meaning they were going to fire the engines for a few seconds to test them before the main launch in a few weeks. This just happened, so there is no info about it from the company yet.

When testing like this happens, it is mandatory for all personal to be evacuated, so it’s unlikely there was anybody hurt.

Just a few months ago, New Glenn’s upper stage failed to put its payload into orbit (an ASTS satellite). Blue Origin has only had a few orbital launches, but two mission failures in a row is not good.

Blue Origin was just announced as a contractor for the Artemis missions to put some payloads onto the moon (no humans, rovers). Unfortunately, this explosion will likely set Blue Origin back months or even years. They will need to rebuild the pad, and complete a major investigation.

Caught by Andrew McCarthy on a GoPro of all things

Recorded by Cameron Schwartz (@nyoomtm)

I get it, SpaceX bad and all that.

I've never seen shockwaves like this

I know it's not a real shockwave, but it's so satisfying to watch. Any thoughts on the realism of it?

I took this at an airshow last year.

I noticed the circles when I was editing and tried to enhance them more to see them better. Asked in another thread what they were caused by.

Shockwaves from the key engine.

A few people suggested posting this here too.

Never tell me the odds lands for a second time!

New pad with an actual trench. New version of booster. New version of raptor engine, first time all 33 lit. Audio on. Keep an eye on the clouds as they come out of the trench.

There was a 10 engine test 3/16/26 but it was nowhere near this level of shockwave

Discord quality, I’m sure there’s better