Transition in Plans by Relativity Space on Journey Toward Orbit
Fiery Dreams and Cold Reality: The Shifting Sands of Relativity Space
In 2015, Tim Ellis and Jordan Noone ignited the space world with the founding of Relativity Space and their audacious goal - to launch a 3D printed rocket into orbit. The duo envisioned a revolution in aerospace, believing that this groundbreaking technology could accelerate and cheapen rocket production.
Fast forward to 2023, and Relativity's first completed rocket, Terran 1, sat at the launchpad, boasting approximately 85% 3D printed components. A monumental leap forward, even though a second stage engine malfunction thwarted its opportunity to reach the heavens. Despite the setback, the flight served to silencing critics and showcasing the soundness of Relativity's manufacturing techniques.
With the milestone behind them, Relativity gears up for their next act - Terran R, a more powerful successor to Terran 1, aiming to compete fiercely with SpaceX's Falcon 9. However, the video announcing their plans presents a surprising departure from their earlier, unyielding commitment to 3D printing.
The Shake-up: New Leadership, New Approach
The new CEO at the helm? Former Google boss, Eric Schmidt. Tim Ellis remains on the board but takes a backseat in day-to-day operations. Notably, co-founder Jordan Noone stepped down as CTO in 2020, opting for an advisory role. The innovative duo, once at the forefront of Relativity's operations, now seem sidelined as the company embarks on a more conventional path.
As the video makes clear, Terran R won't be an entirely 3D printed vehicle. The shift towards a more traditional approach is rooted in the competitive nature of the launch market, with the company deliberately avoiding being tethered to historic goals. Schmidt's "significant investment" in Relativity secures his control and position as CEO, a move likely aimed at capitalizing on the burgeoning space industry and positioning Relativity for lucrative government launches.
Outsourcing the Impossible: The Making of Terran R
Relativity's venture into New Space has always prided itself on transparency. The video revealing Terran R's design decisions is a testament to this commitment, offering an unprecedented look into the company's construction process.
One of the most notable aspects is the outsourcing of key components. Aluminum domes for the propellant tanks, composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs), and even the payload fairings will be manufactured by outside vendors. This isn't a mere delegation of minor assemblies; these crucial components can make or break a rocket's success.
Outsourcing key components, however, is a calculated risk. On one hand, it expedites the booster's development, a critical factor in the resource-intensive aerospace industry. On the other, it leaves Relativity dependent on the performance of their partners, potentially exposed to production bottlenecks or price hikes.
Printing the Future: A Look Ahead
In some areas, Relativity still sparks hope for 3D printing. Despite initial plans to print the propellant tank domes, manufacturing speed concerns led to outsourcing. However, Relativity hasn't given up on metal 3D printing, as their technology continues to evolve.
One area where 3D printing stays integral is the Aeon R engines, where the benefits of rapid design iteration and integrated fluid channels are most pronounced. Relativity's commitment to 3D-printed engines is echoed throughout the industry, with nearly every modern rocket engine embracing additive manufacturing in some capacity.
Ultimately, Relativity's journey mirrors the broader aerospace sector. They'll adopt 3D printing where it makes sense, collaborate with external partners when necessary, and leverage traditional manufacturing techniques when efficiency dictates. While it's less glamorous than promising a 3D printed rocket for the stars, it's a strategy that could pave the way for Terran R's launch within a few years. Competition in the commercial launch market is fierce, and Relativity needs every edge to stay in the game.
- In the realm of technology, Relativity Space, under its new CEO Eric Schmidt, is employing traditional manufacturing techniques in the production of Terran R, a departure from their initial commitment to 3D printing.
- As science and finance intertwine in the burgeoning space industry, Relativity Space, alongside SpaceX and others, is using 3D printing for the construction of rocket engines, demonstrating the integration of cutting-edge technology and conventional manufacturing methods.
