NASA taps Eric Schmidt's Relativity Space for Mars mission, challenging SpaceX
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IN SHORT
NASA has contracted Relativity Space, led by former Google executive Eric Schmidt, to build and launch a spacecraft to Mars by 2028. The mission, dubbed Aeolus, aims to provide daily atmospheric imaging of the Red Planet, potentially positioning Relativity ahead of SpaceX in the race for Martian exploration.
Key Numbers
2028Aeolus mission launch year
Who's Involved
NASA
U.S. space agency awarding contract for Mars mission
Relativity Space
Rocket maker contracted for the Aeolus Mars mission
Eric Schmidt
Former Google executive chair and CEO of Relativity Space
Jared Isaacman
NASA administrator championing public-private partnerships
SpaceX
Rival company with stated Mars ambitions
↳ Why This Matters
This contract signifies a significant step for Relativity Space and Eric Schmidt, potentially validating their 3D-printed rocket technology and placing them in direct competition with SpaceX for lunar and Martian exploration contracts. It also highlights NASA's strategy of leveraging commercial innovation for ambitious space missions.
Key facts
NASA has contracted Relativity Space to build and launch a spacecraft to Mars by 2028.
The mission, named Aeolus, will carry instruments to image Mars' atmosphere daily.
Relativity Space is led by former Google executive chair Eric Schmidt, who acquired a majority stake last year.
The contract structure mirrors previous NASA deals with SpaceX and Firefly Aerospace, involving public-private partnerships.
This mission could potentially make Relativity Space the first private entity to reach Mars.
NASA has awarded a contract to Relativity Space, a rocket company acquired by former Google executive chair Eric Schmidt, to build and launch a spacecraft to Mars by 2028. The mission, named Aeolus, will carry scientific instruments designed to provide daily, global views of Mars' atmosphere, including dust, winds, and temperature. This data is expected to enhance safety for future landers and astronauts on the Red Planet.
The contract follows a model of public-private partnerships, where NASA handles the scientific payload while private companies provide infrastructure. This approach allows NASA to fund ambitious missions more cost-effectively. However, the partnership also carries risks, as Relativity Space is still an unproven entity, having experienced a launch failure with its Terran-1 rocket.
Relativity Space, founded by former SpaceX and Blue Origin engineers, aims to utilize 3D printing for cheaper rocket construction. The company is developing the larger Terran R rocket. Schmidt's investment and leadership came after the company faced fundraising challenges. His involvement has also been linked to potential projects like launching a space telescope financed by his family philanthropy.
The mission's 2028 target date presents a tight timeline for Relativity to design and build both the spacecraft and its rocket. If successful, the Aeolus mission could position Relativity Space ahead of competitors like SpaceX, which also has long-term Mars ambitions but has not yet sent its own dedicated mission to the planet.
Frequently asked questions
The Aeolus mission is a NASA project to send a spacecraft to Mars by 2028, carrying instruments to image and measure the planet's atmosphere daily.
Relativity Space is a rocket company founded by former SpaceX and Blue Origin engineers, aiming to use 3D printing for rocket construction. It is led by former Google executive Eric Schmidt.
This contract provides Relativity Space with a high-profile mission and potential validation for its technology, positioning it in a competitive landscape with SpaceX for future space exploration endeavors.
Eric Schmidt acquired a majority stake in Relativity Space last year and serves as its CEO, guiding the company's strategic direction and investment.
What Happens Next
01Relativity Space will design and build the Aeolus spacecraft and its launch vehicle.
02The Aeolus mission is scheduled to launch in 2028.
03NASA will integrate its scientific instruments into the spacecraft.
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How It Developed
NASA selected Relativity Space for the Aeolus Mars mission.
The mission aims to provide daily atmospheric imaging of Mars.
Relativity Space is led by former Google executive Eric Schmidt.
The mission is scheduled to launch in 2028.
This contract positions Relativity Space in a potential race with SpaceX for Martian exploration.
