USAF approves test launch of 3D printed rocket

CAPE CANAVERAL, FLORIDA — Relativity Space's 3D printed rocket could be launching from Cape Canaveral before the end of 2020.

Relativity Space made different parts for their new rocket, Terran-1, using their 3D printer Stargate, according to the company's website.

The Terran-1 would take around 60 days to print. When all the parts are put together, the rocket would be around 100-feet tall. It would also be able to carry a payload of nearly 2,750 pounds.

Relativity Space has also received permission from the U.S. Air Force to launch Terran-1 at Cape Canaveral in Florida.

The company is hoping to launch the 3D-printed rocket by the end of 2020.

If the launch is successful, the company could get to lease the site for up to 20 years, according to Business Insider.

SOURCES: Futurism.com, Quartz, Business Insider, Florida Today, Relativity Space,
https://futurism.com/air-force-grants-launch-site-3d-printed-rocket-relativity-space
https://qz.com/1526158/rocket-start-up-relativity-leased-a-launch-pad-from-the-us-air-force/
https://www.businessinsider.com/relativity-space-rockets-launchpad-cape-canaveral-2019-1
https://www.floridatoday.com/story/tech/science/space/2019/01/17/relativity-launch-rockets-cape-canaveral/2603166002/
https://www.relativityspace.com/mission