NASA Selects Eric Schmidt’s Relativity Space for 2028 Mars Mission
Photo: The Verge
Quick answer
NASA has tasked Relativity Space, founded by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, with launching the Aeolus mission to Mars in 2028.
NASA has signed an agreement with aerospace company Relativity Space, led by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, to execute a Mars mission in 2028. Under the contract, Relativity Space will provide the launch vehicle, spacecraft, and flight management systems to deliver the Aeolus payload.
Aeolus will be the first spacecraft to provide daily global data on winds, temperature, dust, and clouds in the Martian atmosphere. This information is critical for developing entry, descent, and landing systems, as well as improving the safety of future crewed missions.
Relativity Space is known for its innovative approaches: in 2023, the company launched Terran 1, the world's first 3D-printed rocket. Despite a failed first launch, Relativity Space continues developing the more powerful Terran R rocket, with its maiden flight expected soon.
Eric Schmidt, who took the helm at Relativity Space in 2025, previously led Google for a decade. His experience in technology and strategic management has been instrumental in advancing the company's aerospace initiatives.
Common questions
- What role will Relativity Space play in NASA's Mars mission?
- Relativity Space will be responsible for designing the spacecraft, launch vehicle, and flight management systems to deliver the Aeolus payload to Mars. The company will oversee the entire launch cycle and mission support.
- What data will the Aeolus spacecraft collect on Mars?
- Aeolus will be equipped with four instruments to study the Martian atmosphere, including wind measurements, temperature, dust concentration, and cloud data. This information will improve landing systems and future mission planning.
- Why did NASA choose Relativity Space for this mission?
- Relativity Space specializes in 3D-printed rockets and is developing advanced launch vehicles like Terran R. The company's expertise in innovative technologies was a key factor in NASA's decision.
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