Relativity Space Shifts Focus to Larger Rockets for Commercial Launches Using 3D Printing Technology

Relativity Space, a company that creates rockets using 3D printing, launched the world’s first 3D-printed rocket, Terran 1, on March 22 from Cape Canaveral, Florida. Although it didn’t reach orbit, the test flight showed that the rocket could handle the rigors of space flight. The company plans to focus on a larger, reusable 3D-printed rocket called Terran R, which can carry more weight and compete with SpaceX and other companies. Relativity Space hopes its 3D-printed rockets will be less expensive to produce and fly, making them a more attractive option for commercial satellite launches. The first commercial launches for Terran R are scheduled for 2026 from Florida.