The U.S. has entered a new era of heavy-lift launch—one of choice. The inaugural flight of privately owned Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket also kicks off what promises to be a busy year for developers.

Blue Origin has shared a video recap of last week's maiden launch of the New Glenn, including dramatic close-up footage of the rocket leaving the launchpad.

Blue Origin has not yet announced a launch date. Friday's hot fire test involved fueling and briefly firing the New Glenn's seven engines. It was one of the key last steps before the giant rocket ...