Relativity Space’s ambitious goal to become the first company to launch a 3D printed rocket into orbit has taken a back seat as former Google chief Eric Schmidt takes over as the company’s new CEO.
The company had gotten close with its Terran 1 rocket, with around 85% of its mass consisting of 3D printed parts but a problem with its second stage engine prevented it from reaching orbit.
The new Terran R rocket will not be 3D printed, with the company’s senior staff believing that additive manufacturing is no longer the driving force of the firm.
Schmidt’s investment is thought to have secured controlling interest in the company.
The video from Relativity Space reveals that many key components are being outsourced and manufactured by other, more established, aerospace companies, including the aluminium fuel tank domes, composite pressure vessels that hold high-pressure helium at cryogenic temperatures, and the payload fairings.
However, the company is still committed to 3D printing the rocket’s Aeon R engines.
