One of Relativity Space’s 3D-printed components. Photo: Relativity Space.

Relativity contracted with Telesat to provide launch services for Telesat’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. Telesat will now have access to faster, more frequent and more flexible launches at the lowest cost using Relativity’s Terran 1, the world’s first fully 3D printed rocket designed and built using Relativity’s  3D printing technology platform.

According to the release, this is the first time Telesat, or any major global satellite operator, has selected a completely venture-backed aerospace startup for launch services. Relativity is building the first aerospace platform to integrate Machine Learning (ML), software, and robotics with metal 3D printing technology to optimize the rocket manufacturing process.

“Telesat’s LEO constellation will transform global broadband connectivity with unprecedented performance and affordability and this agreement with Relativity provides Telesat with a number of advantages for achieving our objectives,” said Dave Wendling, Telesat’s Chief Technical Officer. “Early in our LEO program we decided that, in addition to working with outstanding leaders in satellite manufacturing and launch services who we know well, Telesat should also include NewSpace companies whose technologies and manufacturing methods offer lower costs and greater flexibility for deploying our constellation. Relativity is just such a company with their metal 3D printing, use of robotics and other advances. Telesat continues to establish a world-class supplier team to construct, deploy and operate our global LEO network and we are very pleased to welcome Relativity to the Telesat LEO program.”