World’s First 3D-Printed Rocket Launch Cancelled but why
Relativity Space Launch attempted to launch the world’s first 3D-printed rocket, the Terran 1, from Florida’s Cape Canaveral
A California-based aerospace startup called Relativity Space has faced setbacks in its attempt to launch the world’s first 3D-printed rocket, the Terran 1, from Florida’s Cape Canaveral. The launch was scrubbed multiple times due to various issues, including an “automation” problem and pressure issues in the rocket’s second stage.
“Long-term, a major benefit of 3D printing is the ability to more rapidly democratize space due to the incredible cost-effectiveness, radical flexibility and customization,” the company said.
“Medium-heavy lift is clearly where the biggest market opportunity is for the remaining decade, with a massive launch shortage in this payload class,” Ellis tweeted.
The company has said that it intends to try again and has already signed commercial launch contracts worth $1.65 billion, mostly for its larger Terran R rocket. Relativity Space claims that its 3D-printed rockets can be produced more cost-effectively and with greater flexibility than traditional rockets, and use 100 times fewer parts.
