Relativity Space just launched their first 3D printed rocket, Terran 1, from Cape Canaveral – Making them the first ever to do so.
The launch was initially held due to high upper-level winds, but at 11:25 EST, it was a go.

Terran 1 (Mission Name #GLHF) lifted off tonight on an inaugural flight to orbit. All was well on the first stage as the rocket climbed easterly from Launch Complex 16. Blue flames could be seen on the live video feed as its 9 Aeon engines burned methane as they climbed through the atmosphere. The rocket soon passed MaxQ, where the vehicle experiences the maximum dynamic pressure. Cheering could be heard on stream as this was a huge milestone for Relativity – Proving to the world that 3D printed rockets are a viable option for the future of aerospace.

MECO (Main Engine Cut-Off) and first stage separation followed and proved nominal. However, an anomaly arose in the second stage, and the vacuum-optimized engine failed to ignite. It was concluded that orbit wouldn’t be reached, but not all was lost.

The people at Relativity Space are still extremely excited that their rocket has proven its potential to perform. They accomplished their goals of reaching and surpassing MaxQ as well as stage separation. This is a green light for them to move forward with another launch and the ongoing development of Terran 1’s big brother, Terran R.

An update on what exactly happened with the second-stage engine is to be released later via Relativity’s Twitter and/or website.