3D-printed rocket launch fails to reach orbit in debut

Relativity Space successfully launched its 3D-printed rocket, Terran 1, but failed to reach orbit due to a second stage engine ignition issue. The rocket wasn't carrying a customer payload, but instead carried the first metal produced from Relativity's 3D printing system. The company still considers the mission an accomplishment as the rocket endured Max-Q. Relativity aims to demonstrate the viability of its 3D printing technique ahead of the reusable Terran R rocket's planned 2024 launch. However, there is mounting pressure to complete testing as competitors like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Rocket Lab continue to advance.