Relativity Space, the innovative startup focused on 3D-printed rocket technology, has experienced partial success in its latest launch attempt. The company’s Terran 1 rocket successfully lifted off from Cape Canaveral late Wednesday but ultimately failed to reach orbit. The second-stage engine ignited only briefly, and the cause of the failure remains unclear. Relativity has pledged to provide updates on the issue in the coming days.
Despite the setback, Relativity Space considers the mission an achievement. The Terran 1 rocket successfully endured Max-Q, the moment of maximum dynamic pressure expected to place the most stress on its 3D-printed design. Importantly, the rocket was not carrying a customer payload during the test flight. Instead, it contained the first metal produced from Relativity’s 3D printing system.
This launch followed two previous unsuccessful attempts. In the first instance, the company faced challenges cooling propellant in time for liftoff. The second attempt was hampered by a combination of a wayward boat and a software flaw that triggered an automatic engine cutoff shortly after ignition.
Relativity’s Terran 1 rocket serves as a proof of concept for the company’s 3D printing technique, paving the way for the reusable Terran R rocket, which is scheduled for launch in 2024. The 3D printing manufacturing process has the potential to create simpler, more reliable rockets at a reduced cost and with a faster turnaround time. This could lead to lower costs for delivering satellites and experiments into orbit.
While this launch signifies progress, Relativity Space faces increasing pressure to complete testing and demonstrate the viability of its technology. The company has already secured contracts to launch OneWeb satellites and Impulse Space’s commercial Mars mission. However, the competitive landscape in the space industry is fierce, with rivals such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Rocket Lab continually advancing their own technologies. Any setbacks experienced by Relativity Space may limit its ability to secure additional contracts and establish a foothold in the market.
