Relativity Space's Terran R Rocket to be Fully 3D Printed and Reusable
Relativity Space has announced its Terran R rocket will be entirely manufactured using 3D printing and designed for complete reusability.
Relativity Space is developing the Terran R, a fully reusable rocket that will be entirely 3D printed. This new rocket is designed to be significantly larger than its predecessor, Terran 1, with a payload capacity of 20 metric tons to low Earth orbit and 13 metric tons to geostationary transfer orbit. The company plans for the Terran R to be capable of launching large satellite constellations and inter-planetary missions.
The Terran R will feature a two-stage design, with both stages intended for reuse. Relativity Space aims to achieve rapid turnaround times between flights, similar to commercial aircraft. The rocket's structure, tanks, and engines are all slated to be produced through additive manufacturing processes.
To support the development and production of the Terran R, Relativity Space is expanding its Stargate 3D printing facilities at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. The company also plans to establish a new launch site at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The first launch of the Terran R is tentatively scheduled for 2026.
The Terran R represents a significant advancement in additive manufacturing for aerospace. By aiming for a fully 3D-printed and reusable large-scale rocket, Relativity Space is pushing the boundaries of rapid production and cost reduction in space launch. This aligns with the broader industry trend towards more agile and economical access to space, with potential implications for future large-scale satellite deployment and interplanetary exploration.
Edited by the news editor with AI from the original report — please refer to the original source.