# **Eric Schmidt Takes the Helm at Relativity Space: A Fresh Chapter for Terran R**
## **Introduction**
Relativity Space, an aerospace firm located in California, is embarking on a transformative journey with the appointment of former Google CEO Eric Schmidt. This leadership change signifies a pivotal evolution in strategy and direction, as the company continues its ambitious development of the **Terran R** rocket. Under Schmidt’s guidance, Relativity Space is poised to take on SpaceX’s supremacy in the commercial launch sector.
## **Schmidt’s Advent into the Space Sector**
Eric Schmidt’s engagement with Relativity Space has been speculated for several months, but was officially announced during an all-hands meeting with staff. Reports suggest that Schmidt has been financially supporting the company since late 2024, following the cessation of its previous funding sources.
Though his specific intentions are not fully disclosed, Schmidt’s investment indicates a strong belief in Relativity’s ability to create a **medium-lift rocket** that can rival SpaceX’s **Falcon 9**. If achieved, the **Terran R** might be instrumental in launching **megaconstellations**, an emerging and rapidly expanding area within the space industry.
## **Changes in Leadership at Relativity Space**
With Schmidt’s assumption of leadership, **Tim Ellis**, the co-founder and long-standing CEO, has resigned from his position. Ellis, the recognizable face of Relativity for nearly ten years, will continue to play a role as a **board member**.
In a statement on social media, Ellis reflected on the transition:
*”Today signals a dynamic new phase as Eric Schmidt steps in as CEO of Relativity, alongside providing significant financial support. I am confident there’s no one more determined or passionate to drive this vision forward.”*
## **The Path to Terran R’s Launch**
Recently, Relativity Space released a **45-minute video** detailing the development of the **Terran R** rocket. The video highlights the company’s advancements and obstacles, featuring key figures like **Chief Operating Officer Zach Dunn** and **Chief Technology Officer Kevin Wu**.
Dunn highlighted the company’s commitment:
*”There’s no doubt, we have considerable work ahead. However, I genuinely believe we possess all the essential elements for success. We have an exceptional, committed team. Our financial support is robust. We have flight hardware progressing well. Flight software is also coming together. Our infrastructure is in place to construct this rocket, and subsequently many more.”*
## **Departing from 3D Printing**
Relativity Space initially attracted attention for its **3D-printing technology**, utilized in manufacturing substantial elements of its **Terran 1** rocket. However, following the **Terran 1’s sole launch in 2023**, the company redirected its focus toward the **larger Terran R**.
The **Terran R** was initially planned as a **fully 3D-printed, reusable rocket**, but the company has since **shifted from this strategy**. They are now opting for **friction stir-welded aluminum alloy tanks**, a more conventional manufacturing technique.
CTO Kevin Wu elaborated on this decision:
*”We revisited that choice for the Terran R program, and after careful consideration, we concluded that friction stir welded aluminum alloy tanks are currently the best fit for our needs.”*
## **Outsourcing Essential Components**
A significant alteration in Relativity’s approach is its choice to **outsource essential components** of the **Terran R** rocket. The company has procured **pressure domes** from a **European supplier**, and has opted to source its **payload fairing** externally.
Wu acknowledged that **3D-printing the domes** presented greater difficulties than anticipated. The choice to outsource was made to **speed up development** and ensure the **Terran R** reaches the launch pad as swiftly as possible.
Senior Vice President of Manufacturing & Supply Chain Zack Rubin discussed the trade-offs:
*”We’re witnessing some pressure regarding how to optimize the Terran R from both an engineering and technology viewpoint while also considering our business strategy. It’s typical for a company like ours to find a balance between these factors.”*
## **Future Strategies and Launch Schedule**
Relativity Space intends to construct the first **flight version** of the **Terran R** rocket in 2025, with the inaugural launch projected to occur from **Cape Canaveral, Florida, in 2026**.
For the **initial launch**, the company plans to **soft-land the first stage in the Atlantic Ocean**, although this stage will not be reused. Full **reusability** will be implemented in subsequent versions of the rocket. Ultimately, Relativity aspires to achieve a **flight rate of 50 to 100 rockets annually**.
