Blue Origin Astronaut Rehearsal Launch - Preparing for Human Spaceflight

Blue Origin Prepares for Human Spaceflight with Astronaut Rehearsal

Blue Origin is actively advancing towards its objective of carrying human astronauts on its spacecraft. A comprehensive “astronaut rehearsal” is scheduled to occur during a launch planned for Wednesday, April 14th.

This launch, utilizing Blue Origin’s New Shepard reusable rocket, represents a crucial verification step for the vehicle before it transports paying passengers.

Details of the Astronaut Rehearsal

The rehearsal will encompass all procedures except the actual spaceflight itself. This includes the complete boarding process and execution of preflight operations.

Following the landing, personnel will re-enter the capsule to simulate a post-mission exit. This mirrors the experience for private astronauts.

However, Blue Origin staff, acting as stand-ins for customers, will exit the capsule prior to engine ignition and launch. They will then be transported to the landing site to continue the simulation.

Mannequin Skywalker’s Role

A single passenger, Mannequin Skywalker, a test dummy, will be onboard during the flight. This dummy is used to collect data regarding the experience for human passengers.

While Mannequin Skywalker has flown before, this marks the first time it’s integrated with a full ground operations rehearsal conducted by the simulation crew.

New Shepard Enhancements

Blue Origin’s initial New Shepard launch of 2021, which occurred in January, featured testing of improved cabin features.

These improvements included enhanced acoustics, a refined temperature management system, and updated display and communication equipment for future crews.

The company anticipates commencing human spaceflights on the rocket sometime this year, based on the latest publicly available schedules.

Launch Details and Viewing Information

The upcoming launch is scheduled for 8 a.m. CDT (9 a.m. EDT/6 a.m. PDT) from Blue Origin’s launch facility in West Texas.

A live broadcast will begin one hour before the launch window opens. Blue Origin intends to include footage of the astronaut rehearsal, providing the most detailed preview yet of its future tourist flights.