US launches world's first 3D printed rocket

Elizabeth Stone | March 8, 2023 | Sciense | No Comments

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Wednesday, March 8, will see the first launch of the Terran1 light launch vehicle, with 85% of its components created using 3D printing. This was announced by the developer company Relativity Space.

It is noted that the world's first 3D-printed rocket will take off from the launch pad at Cape Canaveral in Florida. Launch is scheduled for 13:00 US East Coast time.

T-2 days. The launch of Terran 1 is a historic moment for our company. An entirely new approach to manufacturing was created to get our 3D printed rocket to the launch pad this week. So, what does a win look like? And what does it mean for the future of spaceflight? ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/rC7jNuXt4d

— Relativity Space (@relativityspace) March 7, 2023

The 30-meter two-stage rocket is equipped with nine Aeon engines in the first stage and one in the second, also created using 3D printers. They use methane as fuel and liquid oxygen as an oxidizer.

If the launch is successful, Terran 1 could also be the first methane rocket to be launched into orbit.

Currently on the pad: Terran 1. By the Specs:
🚀110 ft tall, and 7.5 ft in diameter
🚀85% 3D printed by mass
🚀9 Aeon 1 engines on the first stage
🚀 1 Single Aeon Vacuum engine on the second stage pic.twitter.com/X7NTIh3uID

— Relativity Space (@relativityspace) March 7, 2023

As part of the first test launch, Terran 1 will not carry a payload. In the future, it will be able to launch up to 1250 kg into low Earth orbits. The cost of one launch is estimated at approximately $12 million

First you see it, then you don’t.

Or in this case as Terran 1 prop loads it gets colder due to fueling of the cryogenic propellant and oxidizer = the condensation from the water vapor in the atmosphere freezing on contact with the rocket and building up https://t.co/NEhQlvAwNL… https://t.co/BgaFsoFU1Q pic.twitter.com/aN1EASP27O

— Relativity Space (@relativityspace) March 7, 2023

Relativity Space, based in 2015, is also developing a heavy reusable Terran R launch vehicle that will be capable of placing up to 20 tons of payload into orbit. In its design, the share of 3D-printed components will be increased to 95%. The first launch is scheduled for 2024.

The company emphasized that the use of 3D printing speeds up the construction of rockets by up to two months and significantly reduces their cost.

About The Author

Elizabeth

Elizabeth Stone has been a reporter on the news desk since 2013. Before that she wrote about young adolescence and family dynamics for Styles and was the legal affairs correspondent for the Metro desk. Before joining The Quebec Telegram, Elizabeth Stone worked as a staff writer at the Village Voice and a freelancer for Newsday, The Wall Street Journal, GQ and Mirabella. To get in touch, contact me through my stone@qtelegram.com 1-800-268-7116

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