Rocket builder Relativity Space has built a giant 3D-printing robot that could allow the company to build all kinds of large-format products besides the rockets it plans to launch, Relativity's chief executive Tim Ellis said.
The LA-based startup is targeting the debut launch of its mostly 3D-printed flagship rocket Terran 1 for the end of this year, Ellis said. The rocket is one of a handful of small US launch vehicles being offered by new companies to send small satellites into orbit.
Relativity's upgraded 3D printer, the latest in a lineup named Stargate, will primarily be used to build its bigger, next-generation Terran R rocket, Ellis said. However, he added that the company might also explore projects in such areas as clean energy and "materials for other applications."
Speaking to Reuters, Ellis said: "This large-format metal 3D printing... really means that we're just starting with rockets. As this technology matures and we're...