Elon Musk, appears to have embraced this advice, especially in the context of SpaceX. The aerospace manufacturer has conducted numerous rocket launches, a strategy that has occasionally resulted in its vehicles experiencing literal fiery mishaps.
On the other hand, Jeff Bezos‘s company, Blue Origin, is adopting a different approach. It is not chasing progress at the same accelerated pace as SpaceX and has not yet achieved orbital flights. However, this deliberate choice seems intentional. According to a report on Wednesday, Blue Origin is proceeding with more caution in order to minimize errors on its journey to space.
Thomas Zurbuchen, the former leading science administrator at NASA, conveyed to the WSJ that many of us perceive Blue Origin as a genuine potential rival to SpaceX. He indicated that there’s a certain level of unease among many of us regarding this.
Among the notable upcoming undertakings of the company is its collection of New Glenn orbital rockets, slated for a launch next year. The realization of this goal hinges on the company’s ability to construct the components and integrate them in a manner that aligns with its exacting standards. Presently, Blue Origin staff are diligently crafting parts for the New Glenn boosters and other vehicles at the firm’s rocket production facility in Florida.
Blue Origin’s Approach to New Glenn Project
According to Blue Origin CEO Bob Smith’s, there’s a collective desire for New Glenn to take flight as soon as feasible. However, he emphasized that the company will not compromise on executing the process correctly.
At times, this mindset has caused some frustration among employees involved in the New Glenn project. Previously, a former engineer from Blue Origin positively cited SpaceX’s approach of gradual rocket improvements and project development. For instance, when SpaceX‘s Starship rocket encountered an explosion in April, it was considered a natural part of the development process.
Company leaders stated that they gained valuable insights from the unsuccessful launch, and Elon Musk has expressed his perspective that failures serve as a means of uncovering ‘unknowns’ that might not become apparent until a rocket is actually launched.
Despite the pressures exerted both from within Blue Origin and the broader aerospace industry, Bezos’s company remains resolute in maintaining its current strategy. With a combination of patience and dedicated effort, Blue Origin aims to demonstrate its credibility as a formidable contender to Elon Musk’s dominant SpaceX.
Conclusion
In contrast, Blue Origin takes deliberate steps, differing from SpaceX’s rapid approach. The company’s cautious progression, aimed at minimizing errors, was highlighted. Although perceived as a rival by many, Blue Origin’s methodical strategy may prove effective in the competitive space race.
