Relativity Space Tests the Aeon R Rocket Engine

By Brian Wang

Relativity Space is a private space company that is developing 3D printed rockets, artificial intelligence, and autonomous robotics. They have raised about $1.34 billion and have a valuation of about $5 billion.

They plan to launch the Terran R from Launch Complex 16 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Base starting in 2026.

It is a SpaceX Falcon 9 class rocket. They also plan to reuse the first stage.

It is two-stage, 270-foot-tall rocket with an 18-foot diameter and a 5-meter payload fairing. Terran R is a Falcon 9 class vehicle with a reusable first stage. Terran R will be able to launch 23,500kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) or 5,500kg to a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO), both with downrange landing, or up to a maximum payload of 33,500kg to LEO in expendable configuration. Horizontal integration to the vehicle will be supported through a standard Payload Attach Fitting (PAF) interface, with payload integration configurations available for clusters of constellation satellites, single large satellites, or other unique spacecraft.