Relativity Space has successfully launched its Terran 1 3D-printed rocket from Cape Canaveral after multiple scrubbed attempts. While the rocket failed to reach orbit due to the second stage engine igniting only momentarily, the startup characterises the launch as an accomplishment, having endured Max-Q, the moment that places the most stress on 3D-printed design. The rocket launched without a customer payload and instead carried the first metal produced from Relativity’s 3D printing system. The company aims to demonstrate the viability of its 3D printing technique ahead of the reusable Terran R rocket’s planned 2024 launch. The manufacturing process is expected to provide simpler, more reliable rockets that are cheaper to make and can be ready within weeks. This could lower the cost of delivering satellites and experiments into orbit. While this launch represents progress, there is mounting pressure for Relativity to complete testing before rivals, including SpaceX, Blue Origin and Rocket Lab, outcompete Relativity.
Relativity Space’s 3D-printed rocket launch was unsuccessful in reaching orbit. #SpaceTech #UnsuccessfulLaunch
