3D printed rocket readies for launch

A U.S. startup is preparing to launch its 3D printed rocket, Terran 1, aiming to gain a foothold in the commercial space industry

Terran 1
35.2m
Payload
1 TONNE CAPACITY
Stage 2
LIQUID OXYGEN
LIQUID NATURAL GAS*
AeonVac engine
Interstage

*95% methane

At least 95% of launch vehicle is 3D printed, including engines
Stage 1
LIQUID OXYGEN
LIQUID NATURAL GAS

9 x Aeon 1 engines

Jun 30: Debut test flight, with no payload, due to launch from Cape Canaveral

Stargate Large Format Metal 3D Printing System

Uses existing welding technology to melt metal wire, layer by layer, into precise forms

Robot

Relativity Space: Aims to build rocket in just 2 months – traditional methods take 24 months

Next steps: Terran R – larger, reusable rocket – due to launch into low Earth orbit in 2024

Los Angeles
Launch site

Terran R 
66m
Payload 20 TONNE CAPACITY

Stage 2
SAME FUEL AS TERRAN 1
Stage 1

7 x Aeon R engines



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Sources: Bloomberg, Ars Technica, Relativity Space Pictures: Relativity Space © GRAPHIC NEWS