Terran 1 | Good Luck Have Fun (GLHF)
Relativity Space is set to make history with the launch of their Terran 1 rocket, scheduled to take place soon, from Launch Complex 16 (LC-16) at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in the USA. This is the first mission for the company and the first launch from LC-16 in 35 years, making it a momentous occasion for both Relativity Space and the space industry as a whole.
The mission has been named “Good Luck, Have Fun” (GLHF), and the rocket will be carrying a 3D printed metal ring weighing around 1.5 kg (~3.3 lb) as its only payload. This test launch is a critical step in demonstrating the viability and reliability of the Terran 1 rocket, which is 85% fully 3D printed and methane-powered.
Terran 1 is a small, lightweight rocket designed for low Earth orbit (LEO) missions. It stands at 104 feet (31.7 meters) tall and has a liftoff mass of 30,000 pounds (13,607 kg). Although there will be no attempt to recover the first stage, this launch will mark the first-ever launch of a 3D printed rocket and the first launch of Terran 1. The rocket will also not be attempting to recover the fairings, which are new.
The satellite will be going to a 200 x 210 km LEO at 28.5° inclination. The weather conditions for the launch are still to be determined.
This launch will be the 34th orbital launch attempt of 2023, and the success of this test launch will be a significant milestone for Relativity Space as they aim to revolutionize the space industry with their innovative technology. With their focus on advanced manufacturing techniques and automation, they aim to reduce the cost and time of space missions, making space more accessible and affordable for everyone.
The Terran 1 rocket’s methane propulsion system is more environmentally friendly than traditional rocket fuels, which burn highly toxic propellants. This, coupled with the 3D printing technology, makes Terran 1 a game-changer in the rocket industry.
GLHF Mission Profile:
TERRAN 1 ROCKET:
Relativity Space has developed the Terran 1, a small-lift launch vehicle with a specific purpose of placing small satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Sun-synchronous orbits (SSO). The two-stage methane powered rocket stands at 35 meters (115 feet) tall and has a diameter of 2.3 meters (7.5 feet). is propelled by 9 Aeon 1 cryogenic engines (LCH3/LOX) and 1 Aeon Vac in the Second Stage.
What sets Terran 1 apart is that 85% of its mass is being 3D printed by Relativity Space’s metal 3D printer called Stargate. Stargate is the largest metal 3D printer that produces the rocket’s tanks, which are made from a proprietary aluminum alloy. While many new space launch providers have been using metal 3D printing to produce complex parts, mostly for their engines, Relativity Space has taken it one step further by printing not only the engines but also the tanks of Terran 1. This significantly reduces the overall part count and complexity of the rocket.
Terran 1 is capable of carrying a maximum payload of 1,250 kg to a 185 km LEO and 900 kg to a 500 km SSO. With its advanced manufacturing techniques and automation, Terran 1 aims to reduce the cost and time of space missions, making space more accessible and affordable for everyone.
AEON 1:
Thrust: 113 KN
Fuel: Liquid natural gas (LNG) and liquid oxygen (LOX).
Engine Cycle: Open expander cycle
Construction: Made from a proprietary 3D-printed alloy, assembled from fewer than 100 parts using selective laser sintering.
Testing: Relativity Space has completed over 500 test firings of the Aeon 1 engine at NASA’s Stennis Space Center’s E-3 test facility.
AEON VAC:
Thrust: 132.56 KN
STARGATE 3D PRINTER:
DMLS- Direct metal laser sintering
STARGATE Printer works under the principle of DMLA, which is an additive manufacturing technique that involves melting and fusing layers of metallic powder using a computer controlled high power laser beam. It’s working principle comes under powder bed fusion which is similar to selective laser sintering of plastic resin but is suitable for use with metals including aluminium,stainless steel, titanium, cobalt chrome and Inconel. It offers good accuracy and details and excellent mechanical properties.
In conclusion, the Terran 1 rocket’s stage-wise deep dive has provided valuable insights into the technology and engineering behind this innovative spacecraft. From its unique propulsion system to its sophisticated manufacturing technique, the Terran 1 has set a new standard for commercial spaceflight.
As we eagerly anticipate the maiden launch of this groundbreaking rocket, we would like to extend our congratulations to the team at Relativity Space for their dedication and hard work. The Terran 1 represents a major milestone in the quest for affordable and accessible spaceflight, and we look forward to seeing the impact it will have on the industry in the years to come.
