The launch of the first rocket built on the basis of 3D printing scheduled for today in Florida, United States, has been postponed, the builder announced, without giving reasons. “Based on an initial analysis of the data, the vehicle is in good condition. More information will be provided on the causes of today’s cancellation,” the company Relativity Space said on the social network Twitter.
The Terran 1 rocket is 33.5 meters high and has a diameter of just over two meters and is equipped with engines that are also largely built using 3D (three-dimensional printing) technology.
This morning, Relativity Space said launch preparations went according to plan, despite “strong winds,” a “potential source of concern” for the operation.
The purpose of the first test flight is to prove that the spacecraft can withstand the pressures of a takeoff, and to obtain the maximum data for the future development of these rockets, which are cheaper, faster and easier to build, according to the company . .
In total, 85% of Terran 1’s structure, which has a capacity to carry up to 1250 kilograms of payload, has been 3D printed and the builder aims to reach 95% in the future.
Relativity Space is also developing a larger rocket, the Terran R, with a greater capacity to carry cargo to low Earth orbit, with first launch scheduled for 2024.
Source: DN
