Jeff Bezos’ space company Blue Origin and NASA are counting down to their joint Mars mission — a step that could mark a new era in space exploration. Following its successful first test flight in January, Blue Origin is now preparing for the second launch of its heavy-lift rocket, New Glenn. The mission, named NG-2, is set to lift off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station’s Launch Complex 36 in Florida.
This mission goes beyond testing. New Glenn will carry NASA’s twin ESCAPADE spacecraft — built by Rocket Lab — which are designed to study Mars’ magnetosphere and the interaction between the solar wind and the Martian atmosphere. Once they reach Mars orbit, the spacecraft will conduct long-term scientific observations that could help scientists understand atmospheric loss, radiation exposure, and the conditions for future human exploration.
NG-2 also represents a major advancement in space communication. The mission will include the first in-orbit test of Viasat’s InRange system, developed under NASA’s Communications Services Project (CSP). This system aims to maintain real-time data transmission during launches, reducing reliance on traditional ground stations and paving the way for more resilient deep space communications.
With reusable rockets and a focus on cost-effective launches, Blue Origin seeks to make space travel more frequent and sustainable. If successful, NG-2 won’t just advance Mars science — it could redefine how humanity reaches and explores the cosmos.