A Transformative Telecommunications Platform
Built upon our existing Blue Ring platform, our Mars Telecommunications Orbiter (MTO) is ready to support NASA’s Mars telecommunications relay mission in 2028. MTO is designed to establish a high-speed communications relay network for continuous coverage between Earth and Mars with the flexibility to meet future Mars science and exploration needs.
High-Speed Connectivity
Continuous, robust communications provided by multiple high-rate links, supplemented by deployable UHF relay satellites.
Hybrid Propulsion
Expanded launch windows to Mars with our hybrid (solar electric + chemical) propulsion and maneuvering capability.
Unmatched Capacity
Capable of carrying over 1,000 kg of payload mass to Mars orbit, depending on specific mission requirements.
Powerful Data
Edge processing, data storage, and AI expand the capabilities of future Mars infrastructure.
Launch Agnostic
Compatible with New Glenn and five-meter class fairing rockets.
Production-Ready
Blue Ring vehicles are in production in a dedicated facility in Huntsville, AL.
Ready to Go
In addition to our manufacturing facility, a Blue Ring pathfinder successfully launched on New Glenn in January 2025. Blue Ring will fly its first fully integrated mission this spring.
Defining the Future Mars Infrastructure
This orbiter builds upon our Mars Next-Generation Relay and Mars Sample Return architecture commercial proposals. In fact, numerous NASA Mars exploration studies note that multi-use, enduring infrastructure platforms that provide high-rate communications and the ability to deliver other services and infrastructure repeatedly are the best approach to increase the pace of exploration. Our MTO provides a high-performing telecommunications platform that will meet and exceed NASA’s 2028 request—and opens the opportunity to repeatedly deliver additional human and science exploration and infrastructure in the immediate future.
To the Moon and Mars, Affordably
Blue Origin designs and manufactures heavy-lift rockets, transporters, landers, and orbiters to explore Mars efficiently and affordably. As much as 80 percent of our work to land on the Moon is directly applicable and reusable for the Red Planet.
