Solar storms delay the launch of Blue Origin's big new rocket with Mars orbiters for NASA

Strong solar storms responsible for breathtaking auroras across the U.S. have delayed the launch of Blue Origin’s big new rocket. Already grounded by poor weather at Cape Canaveral, Florida, the New Glenn rocket was poised to blast off Wednesday afternoon with two Mars orbiters for NASA. But five hours before the targeted liftoff, it was called off because of the heightened solar activity. Worried about the possible impact of increased radiation on its Mars-bound spacecraft, NASA decided to postpone the launch until conditions improve. Officials say they will try again Thursday.