Jeff Bezos, the founder of Blue Origin, has fulfilled a long-standing promise by donating the company’s first rocket, New Shepard, and a mockup of its crew capsule to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. This donation represents a significant milestone in the history of space exploration, as it showcases the advancements in spaceflight and the emergence of commercial space tourism. The artifacts will be on display in the museum’s renovated galleries, offering visitors a glimpse into the future of space exploration.
Honoring Blue Origin’s Legacy: The New Shepard Rocket and Crew Capsule
The New Shepard booster that became the world’s first launch vehicle to place a payload into space before landing upright on its legs has been delivered to the Smithsonian. This remarkable feat, accomplished by Blue Origin, is a testament to the company’s innovative approach to reusable launch systems.
The donation of the New Shepard rocket and crew capsule to the Smithsonian is a significant moment in the history of space exploration. It not only honors the achievements of Blue Origin but also provides an opportunity for the public to engage with the latest advancements in commercial spaceflight. The artifacts will be displayed in the museum’s renovated galleries, offering visitors a unique chance to witness the evolution of space technology and the growing role of private companies in the space industry.
Showcasing the Future of Space Exploration: The RSS First Step and RSS Kármán Line
Alongside the New Shepard booster, a mockup of Blue Origin’s crew capsule will also be on display at the Smithsonian. This capsule, which can seat up to six private astronauts for a 10-minute trip above the Kármán line and back, represents the company’s efforts to make space tourism a reality.
Further, the museum will feature the still-flying RSS First Step, the spacecraft that has flown 43 people to space, including Bezos himself. This exhibit will provide visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about the individuals who have experienced the thrill of space travel.
Blue Origin is now preparing for the first launch of its second human-rated vehicle, the RSS Kármán Line, named after the internationally recognized boundary between Earth and space. This latest development showcases the company’s continuous innovation and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration.
Transforming the National Air and Space Museum: Inspiring the Next Generation of Explorers
The Blue Origin artifacts will debut to the public in two renovated and reimagined galleries opening in the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in 2026. This is a significant step in the museum’s ongoing transformation, as it aims to provide a rich collection and presentation of current spaceflight and future exploration.
In addition to the Blue Origin donations, Bezos personally gifted the Smithsonian $200 million in 2021, which will be used to support the renovation of the museum and the establishment of a new education center, the Bezos Learning Center. This investment in the museum’s future underscores Bezos’ commitment to inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts and STEM professionals.
The Bezos Learning Center will feature programs aimed at engaging students in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, as well as aid educators in better using the Smithsonian’s collections across all of its museums. This initiative will play a crucial role in fostering the next generation of space explorers and innovators, ensuring that the legacy of space exploration continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
