Terran1 has up to 85% of the parts made using 3D printing technology. His first start will take place on March 8.
On Wednesday, March 8, the first launch of the Terran1 light launch vehicle will take place, with 85% of the parts made using 3D printing. It was announced by the developer company Relativity Space.
It was noted that the world’s first 3D-printed rocket will take off from the launch pad at Cape Canaveral in Florida. The launch is scheduled for 13.00 US East Coast time (20.00 Kyiv time).
T-2 days. The launch of Terran 1 is a historic moment for our company. An entirely new manufacturing approach was developed to get our 3D printed rocket onto the launch pad this week. So, what does a win look like? And what does this 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, which are also created using 3D printers. They use methane as fuel and liquid oxygen as an oxidant.
If the launch is successful, Terran 1 could also be the first methane rocket to be launched into orbit.
Currently on pad: Terran 1. By the Specs:
🚀110 ft high, and 7.5 ft in diameter
🚀85% 3D printed by mass
🚀9 Aeon 1 engines in the first phase
🚀 1 Single Aeon Vacuum engine in 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 orbit. The cost of a launch is estimated at $12 million.
Relativity Space, founded in 2015, is also developing a heavy reusable Terran R launch vehicle capable of putting up to 20 tons of payload into orbit. In its design, the share of 3D-printed parts will increase to 95%. The first launch is scheduled for 2024.
The company emphasized that the use of 3D printing accelerates the construction of rockets by up to two months and significantly reduces their cost.
Recall that the first official launch of the RS1 launch vehicle by Californian startup ABL Space Systems failed in January. After launch, an “anomaly” arose and the rocket fell.
New Japanese rocket launch fails
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Source: korrespondent
I am Ben Stock, a passionate and experienced digital journalist working in the news industry. At the Buna Times, I write articles covering technology developments and related topics. I strive to provide reliable information that my readers can trust. My research skills are top-notch, as well as my ability to craft engaging stories on timely topics with clarity and accuracy.