3D-printed Relativity Space rocket still fails to reach orbit

The 3D-printed Relativity Space rocket is still unable to enter orbit. A failure, of course, but real progress.

Relativity Space was finally able to launch its 3D-printed rocket after several failed attempts, but the results are unfortunately quite mixed. If the startup’s Terran 1 spacecraft managed to take off from the launch pad at Cape Canaveral, it failed to reach its orbit because the second-stage engine only ignited for a moment. It is not yet known exactly what led to the failure of this mission, but Relativity promises to provide information in the “days to come.”

3D-printed Relativity Space rocket still fails to reach orbit

However, the company still classifies the mission as a success. The Terran 1 has been subjected to Max-Q (Maximum Dynamic Pressure), where the entire 3D printed design is subjected to maximum stress. The rocket did not carry any payload. Instead, it carried the very first metal produced by Relativity’s 3D printing system.

As CNN explains, the first two launch attempts were marred by problems. The Relativity only had problems with a coolant leak on the first try, the boat was in the safe zone on the second try, and a software bug that caused the engine to shut down automatically shortly after ignition.

Failure, of course, but real progress

Relativity is using this Terran 1 rocket to demonstrate the viability of its 3D printing technology before moving on to launch its reusable Terran R rocket scheduled for 2024. Theoretically, this manufacturing process should make it possible to produce rockets more easily and reliably, at lower cost, within a few weeks. As a result, the overall cost of sending satellites into space and other orbital experiments should be significantly reduced.

If this launch certainly represents real progress, there is tremendous pressure today to complete this test in order for the Terran 1 rocket to reach orbit. Relativity already has contracts with private companies, including the launch of OneWeb satellites and the commercial Impulse Space mission to Mars. There is also a simpler issue of competition: competitors like SpaceX, Blue Origin and Rocket Lab are very active on their side, and the slightest setback reduces Relativity’s chances of success in this sector.