California start-up company Relativity Space is trying to make a name for themselves. Their rocket, Terran-1, made its debut launch Wednesday. Unfortunately, it failed after three minutes of flight, but the reason for this is more unique than most. Relativity is still working out the kinks because Terran-1is almost completely 3-D printed! Relativity’s goal is to create a more inexpensive method of production for future space travel.
Roughtly 85% of Terran-1 is 3-D printed, including its nine engines. Consider the elements a rocket contends with leaving our planet. For a 3-D printed craft, that’s super impressive! And Relativity is pretty happy with their current tests. CEO Tim Ellis told NPR their rocket’s performance is a huge success for them. And praises the impressive versatility of 3-D printing parts.
“The 3D printing technology is a big advantage because we can test and iterate and then reprint and rebuild changes in the design very quickly, with fewer limitations on factory tooling and traditional manufacturing techniques.” What this means for the future of space travel could be huge. Though, currently, Relativity is catching the attention of satellite manufacturers hoping to increase internet access to the globe. And they’re doing pretty well for themselves. Currently, the start-up has secured $1.7 billion in customer contracts.
Terran’s previous launches were delayed due to technical difficulties and weather. So to finally have a clear launch with some measure of success is great news. Relativity will look over the data to see what caused Terran-1 to fail. In the meantime, they continue to work towards advancing their 3-D printing technologies. The end goal being a 95% printed craft designed for even heavier payloads.
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