Blue Origin's New Glenn Rocket Fails, Burmese Python Crisis, Free Orchestra Concerts, Rocket Launches, Mortgage Rates Drop - Controversial Updates!

Rocket grounded, python concerns, conductor's choice concert, rocket launches, mortgage rates declining, new construction homes! Don't miss out on all the exciting news and events happening in Brevard County!

Larry Fleckinger

Apr 23, 2026

Blue Origin's New Glenn Rocket Grounded After Engine Failure

On April 19, 2026, Blue Origin launched its third New Glenn rocket from Cape Canaveral, aiming to deploy the BlueBird 7 satellite for AST SpaceMobile and boost global cellular connectivity.

While the first-stage booster, “Never Tell Me The Odds,” achieved a flawless droneship landing, the mission quickly faced trouble when a BE-3U upper stage engine under performed.

This malfunction sent the satellite into the wrong orbit, forcing its deorbit and rendering it inoperable.

New Glenn launches are now grounded as Blue Origin and the FAA launch a full investigation into the incident.

NASA is tracking developments closely—New Glenn is set to carry the Blue Moon lunar lander for the Artemis program.

The setback highlights the risks of spaceflight, but landing the booster marks progress toward reliable, reusable rockets.

Industry observers remain optimistic for a quick resolution and the advancement of space technology.

Burmese pythons have established a stubborn foothold in Florida's Everglades for over 25 years, resisting efforts to curb their spread.

These invasive snakes are now expanding into critical habitats like coastal mangroves and recently appeared in Brevard County—raising concerns among environmentalists.

The capture of a 12-foot python in the T.M. Goodwin Waterfowl Management Area in October 2023 signals the species’ northward advance.

Experts warn that even a few sightings may indicate a much larger hidden population.

Research shows pythons can survive cold snaps by hiding in burrows, and DNA evidence reveals they’re preying on native wildlife and spreading farther north than expected.

Efforts like Florida’s free "Python Patrol" classes and the IveGot1 app aim to mobilize the public for sightings and safe reports.

Innovative detection methods, including eDNA and trained dogs, offer hope, but vigilance and timely reporting in places like Brevard remain critical to managing this invasive threat.

Melbourne Community Orchestra's Conductor's Choice Concerts on April 29-30 - Must See! And It's FREE!

The Melbourne Community Orchestra invites residents to its Conductor’s Choice concerts on April 29 and 30 at 7 p.m. in the Melbourne Auditorium, 625 Hibiscus Boulevard.

Led by Dr. Mark P. Nelson, the orchestra will perform works close to his heart, including Tchaikovsky’s Capriccio Italien, Berlioz’s Roman Carnival Overture, and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 9.

Local talent shines as Edgewood Jr/Sr High senior Anderson Aiken features as soloist in Lalo’s Cello Concerto in D minor.

Arrive by 6:15 p.m. to enjoy a pre-show with flute player Noël Barefield, pianist Paul Wubbena, and horn player Cassidy Phillips.

Admission is free, underlining the orchestra’s mission to bring accessible, high-quality music to the community.

Trivia Question❓

What space mission famously included the line "Houston, we have a problem" when an oxygen tank exploded on board the spacecraft?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

On This Day in History — April 23

In 1616, William Shakespeare died in Stratford-upon-Avon, England.

In 1940, a fire broke out at the Rhythm Night Club in Natchez, Mississippi, killing 209 people.

In 1968, students at Columbia University in New York City began a week-long occupation of several campus buildings in protest of the Vietnam War and university policies.

In 2005, the first video was uploaded to YouTube by co-founder Jawed Karim, titled "Me at the zoo."

Space Coast Weekend Events:

April 23–6, 2026

🔥 Space Coast Weekend Events Guide (April 23–26, 2026)

Melbourne

April 23 (Thursday)

Downtown Melbourne Food & Drink Crawl
📍 Downtown Melbourne
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Details
A lively evening exploring local restaurants, bars, and nightlife in the heart of Melbourne.
Live Music – Local Bands
📍 Meg O’Malley’s
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Lineup
Enjoy authentic Irish pub vibes with rotating live bands and great food.

April 25 (Saturday)

Downtown Melbourne Farmers Market
📍 Riverview Park
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Details
Fresh produce, local vendors, crafts, and live music by the river.

Viera

April 24 (Friday)

Friday Fest at The Avenue Viera
📍 The Avenue Viera
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Details
Outdoor shopping, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.

Palm Bay

April 25 (Saturday)

Community Food Truck Night
📍 Fred Poppe Regional Park
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Details
Food trucks, music, and relaxed outdoor vibes for all ages.

Rockledge

April 23 (Thursday)

John McDonald & The Mango Men (Live)
📍 Pineda Inn Bar & Grill
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Lineup
Fun tropical rock band bringing beach vibes and energy.

Cocoa Beach

April 24–25 (Fri–Sat)

Beachside Live Music Series
📍 Coconuts on the Beach
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Lineup
Oceanfront live music, drinks, and nightlife.
Surfside Market & Vendors
📍 Downtown Cocoa Beach
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Details
Local artisans, beach goods, and food vendors.

Cape Canaveral

April 25 (Saturday)

Port Canaveral Live Entertainment
📍 Port Canaveral
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Details
Waterfront dining with live music and sunset views.

Merritt Island

April 24 (Friday)

Island Night Market
📍 Merritt Square Area
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Details
Local vendors, crafts, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Titusville

April 26 (Sunday)

Riverfront Sunday Market
📍 Space View Park
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Details
Relaxing riverfront market with vendors and scenic views.

Satellite Beach

April 25 (Saturday)

Beach Yoga + Wellness Meetup
📍 Pelican Beach Park
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Event Details
Morning yoga and wellness gathering by the ocean.

Space Coast (All Areas)

April 23–26 (All Weekend)

Multiple Live Music Events Across 600+ Venues
📍 Various Locations
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Full Lineup
Daily rotating lineup of bands and performers across the county.
Family Events, Kids Activities & Runs
📍 Various Locations
🗺️ View Map
🔗 Browse Events
Includes fun runs, kids events, and community gatherings.

Quote Of The Day

"Live your life boldly and without regrets, for we only have one chance to make our mark on the world."

🚀 Space Coast Rocket Launches (FL)

April 23, 2026–May 1, 2026

Space Coast Launch Roundup

Monday, April 27, 2026

10:21 AM ET — Falcon Heavy / SpaceX — LC-39A — ViaSat-3 F3

Payload: A large Boeing-built ViaSat-3 broadband communications satellite for the Asia-Pacific region, intended to extend Viasat’s global high-capacity internet coverage.

Notes: Launch window opens at 10:21 AM ET.

Monday, April 27, 2026

8:52 PM ET — Atlas V 551 / ULA — SLC-41 — Amazon Leo (LA-06)

Payload: 29 Amazon Project Kuiper broadband internet satellites for Amazon’s low Earth orbit communications constellation.

Notes: Launch window opens at 8:52 PM ET.

Friday, May 1, 2026

1:33 PM ET — Falcon 9 / SpaceX — SLC-40 — Starlink Group 10-38

Payload: A batch of 29 Starlink v2 Mini satellites for SpaceX’s second-generation low Earth orbit internet network.

Notes: Launch window opens at 1:33 PM ET.

Pineda Inn Bar & Grill
On The Indian River!

Pineda Inn Bar & Grill: A Laid-Back Waterfront Favorite in Rockledge

If you’re looking for one of those classic local spots where the vibe is relaxed, the drinks are cold, and the view does a lot of the talking, Pineda Inn Bar & Grill in Rockledge is worth a visit. This longtime neighborhood hangout blends old-Florida charm with a casual waterfront setting that keeps locals coming back.

What makes Pineda Inn stand out is its atmosphere. The outdoor tiki-style patio offers a breezy place to enjoy lunch, dinner, or a drink while taking in the riverfront scenery. It’s the kind of spot where you can unwind with friends, enjoy the Florida weather, and soak in the laid-back Space Coast lifestyle.

Pineda Inn is also known for being more than just a place to grab a bite. With regular live music, trivia, karaoke, and other entertainment, it has the feel of a true local gathering place rather than a standard restaurant stop. That mix of food, drinks, music, and waterfront views helps explain why it has built such a loyal following in the Rockledge area.

Whether you’re heading out for a casual lunch, meeting friends for happy hour, or looking for a fun evening out with live entertainment, Pineda Inn Bar & Grill delivers a relaxed and welcoming experience. It may not be flashy, but that’s exactly part of its charm.

For Space Coast residents and visitors alike, this Rockledge favorite is a great reminder that some of the best local spots are the ones with character, good company, and a view that keeps you lingering a little longer.

Location: 6533 US-1, Rockledge, FL 32955Rockledge, Florida
Call: 321-751-5311

Mortgage Rates Continue to Decline, Encouraging Homebuyers and Refinancers.

Mortgage rates have fallen for the third consecutive week, reaching 6.23% for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage.

This decrease is due to lower yields on the 10-year Treasury notes caused by inflation concerns.

The falling rates may encourage more buyers to enter the housing market and refinance their existing mortgages.

Experts predict that rates will remain low in the coming weeks as the economy continues to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

New Construction Homes in Brevard County, FL — Prices Still Dropping, Buyer Incentives and Lower Interest Rates!

(STILL THE BEST DEALS)

View ALL New Construction Homes In Brevard! https://NewHomesBrevard.com.

New Listing! Lakefront 55+ Home

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Under Contract! Awesome Oceanfront Condo

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💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Apollo 13

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