Launch · New Glenn · Launch Complex 36A

Where to watch Blue Ring-1

Is it worth the drive?

• Playalinda Beach

  Open 6 AM–6 PM that day, as posted. May change.

About the mission

The first mission of Blue Ring, Blue Origin's all-in-one, high-powered hybrid solar electric and chemical propelled spacecraft, will test the spacecraft's operations in Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO), as well as subsequent operations after reaching Geostationary Orbit (GEO). It will carry one of Scout Space's flagship next-generation space domain awareness (SDA) Owl sensors, which is designed to enhance real-time tracking, characterization, and assessment of space objects by integrating advanced optical sensing, onboard artificial intelligence-driven processing, and autonomous decision-making capabilities to deliver domain-wide intelligence in space in support of the U.S. Space Force’s space control mission set. Blue Ring will also carry Optimum Technologies (OpTech)'s next-generation Caracal optical payload, which is designed to provide actionable insights on resident space objects and orbital activity and includes onboard image storage, object detection algorithms, and passive thermal control. The payload is designed to operate flexibly across dynamic orbits over a year-long mission profile. Several internal Blue Origin payloads will also be hosted.

Where to stand for a launch from Launch Complex 36A

Public spots that are open for this pad, in my own words. The map shows each one against the pad.

• Playalinda Beach

  This is about as far as you can go on Playalinda Beach for launch viewing. Some tips: - Beach opening hours do not adjust for a launch. If a launch gets postponed to be after park closing hours, you will be forced to leave. - Playalinda has closed for launches in the past, but recently it has remained open. - This is my personal favorite public launch viewing spot! Even if a launch scrubs, you still get a nice beach day. - From this spot, you may not be able to see (all of) the rocket ahead of launch, but it will be visible within 5 seconds of liftoff! - The view in this picture is a launch from Pad 40. If the launch is from 39-A, you'll be twice as close!

• Playalinda Beach - Elevated Boardwalk

  In each of the parking complexes, you will have to take an elevated boardwalk to get to the beach.   Many people choose to use this boardwalk platform as a way to see the entire rocket on the launchpad prior to launch!  If that is a priority, this may be your spot!

• Jetty Park Pier

  A fixed concrete pier at Jetty Park, one of the closest locations south of the launch pads.  This is a great spot when optimizing for booster landings. Admissions can be tricky, so make sure to check latest ticketing information from their official website.

• Max Brewer Bridge

  A nice elevated view to be able to see most of the launch pads.  During major launches, the entire bridge can be shut down to allow pedestrian traffic.

• Cherie Down Park

  This spot generally has decent parking and can be a good alternative to Jetty Park.  In reality, this marker represents the fact that any spot up and down this stretch of beach is a great view, especially for booster landings.

• Space View Park

  Nice public park on the water with good views!

Viewing guides

• New Glenn
• All viewing guides