Get ready for a space race like no other! Blue Origin, the ambitious aerospace company, has just unveiled its plans to take on SpaceX's Starship with the mighty New Glenn 9x4. This "super heavy" rocket is set to shake things up, promising to deliver an impressive 70 metric tons to low-Earth orbit. But here's where it gets controversial... Blue Origin's New Glenn aims to rival SpaceX's Starship, but can it really match up to Elon Musk's vision?
Following their successful NG-2 launch, Blue Origin announced the development of New Glenn 9x4, equipped with upgraded BE-4 engines, boosting its first-stage thrust to a whopping 4.5 million pounds. With a reusable fairing and an advanced thermal protection system, Blue Origin is leaving no stone unturned.
The New Glenn "Super Heavy" 9x4, with its nine BE-4s and four BE-3Us, boasts an 8.7-meter payload fairing. This beast of a rocket is designed to transport 70 metric tons to LEO, outperforming SpaceX's Falcon Heavy. But SpaceX's Starship is a force to be reckoned with, capable of carrying up to 150 metric tonnes in its fully reusable configuration.
Now, let's talk about the electric car giant, Tesla. In a major win, Tesla has secured approval for FSD testing in an urban environment in Sweden. Despite some opposition, Nacka Municipality gave the green light, citing the potential for cheaper and more eco-friendly transportation. However, there's a twist - some officials opposed FSD due to Tesla's conflict with trade union IF Metall.
In other news, Tesla's Model 3 and Model Y have been named the top car buys in Norway. Despite tough competition, these models stood out for their exceptional value, performance, and everyday usability. The Model 3, with its improved features and responsive handling, continues to set the standard for compact EVs. And the Model Y, with its premium driving experience, has claimed the crown as Norway's top family car purchase.
Over at Tesla Giga Berlin, production is ramping up to meet the high demand for the Model Y. The facility has expanded to two full shifts, and with registrations rising in key territories, Tesla is on a roll. Despite the challenges, including a tariff dispute with the US, Tesla is exporting vehicles produced at Giga Berlin to Canada.
And Norway? Well, it's experiencing a historic spike in Tesla purchases, with buyers rushing to beat an imminent tax increase on cars. Tesla has broken Norway's all-time annual sales record, and it's all happening without FSD, which remains unavailable in the country.
So, what do you think? Can Blue Origin's New Glenn truly rival SpaceX's Starship? And will Tesla's FSD approval in Europe further boost its sales? Let's discuss in the comments!
