NASA has selected Relativity Space, a rocket company led by former Google executive Eric Schmidt, to launch its Aeolus payload to Mars in 2028. This public-private partnership marks a significant milestone for both NASA and Relativity Space, as it will provide the first daily, global view of Martian winds, temperatures, dust, and clouds.

The contract between NASA and Relativity Space is structured similarly to deals made with SpaceX and Firefly Aerospace, where the private company provides low-cost infrastructure while NASA handles the science. The Aeolus payload will contain four instruments to measure and image Mars from orbit, providing critical data for future robotic and human missions.

Background and Context

Relativity Space was founded in 2015 by two former SpaceX and Blue Origin engineers with the goal of using 3D printing to build cheaper rockets. The company's first design, Terran-1, launched in March 2023 but failed mid-flight. Relativity doubled down on a larger design, dubbed the Terran R, which is set to make its debut voyage later this year.

Eric Schmidt took over as CEO of Relativity Space in March 2025 after taking a majority stake in the company due to fundraising challenges. He has expressed interest in orbital data centers and is thought to be using Relativity to launch a space telescope, Lazuli, financed by his family philanthropy, Schmidt Sciences.

Why it Matters to the Industry

This partnership between NASA and Relativity Space highlights the growing trend of public-private collaborations in space exploration. By leveraging commercial innovation and investment, NASA can deliver more science, more often, and reduce the time it takes to get essential data into the hands of researchers.

The success of this mission will also demonstrate the capabilities of 3D printing in building cheaper rockets, which could have significant implications for the adult industry. The ability to launch satellites or deliver cargo to the moon at a lower cost could enable new business models and revenue streams for companies operating in the space.

What Comes Next

The mission is set to launch in 2028, with Relativity Space responsible for designing and building the spacecraft to carry the Aeolus instruments. The company will also finish building the rocket that will carry it to space, all on a tight timeline.

NASA administrator Jared Isaacman has championed public-private partnerships like this, which allow companies to take on some of the development cost in exchange for allowing NASA to stretch its budget further. This model has become a template for how the agency funds ambitious missions without bearing all the financial risk itself.

Key Facts

  • NASA has selected Relativity Space to launch its Aeolus payload to Mars in 2028.
  • The contract is structured similarly to deals made with SpaceX and Firefly Aerospace.
  • Relativity Space's Terran R rocket will be used for the mission, which is set to make its debut voyage later this year.
  • Eric Schmidt took over as CEO of Relativity Space in March 2025 after taking a majority stake in the company.
  • The Aeolus payload will contain four instruments to measure and image Mars from orbit.
  • NASA administrator Jared Isaacman has championed public-private partnerships like this, which allow companies to take on some of the development cost.