Eric Schmidt Named CEO of Relativity Space, Challenges Musk and Bezos

Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, has been appointed as the new CEO of rocket startup Relativity Space, taking over from co-founder Tim Ellis, who will remain on the board. Schmidt has made a significant investment in the company, acquiring a controlling stake as it aims to compete with other major players in the space industry, such as SpaceX and Blue Origin. Relativity Space is known for launching the world's first 3D-printed rocket, Terran 1, and is currently developing a reusable rocket, Terran R, with a planned launch in late 2026. The company has long-term goals that include establishing an industrial base on Mars. Schmidt's leadership marks a new chapter for Relativity as it seeks to expand its capabilities in the growing aerospace sector. Ellis expressed confidence in Schmidt's vision and tenacity to drive the company's ambitions forward.