This is great news! I love to see new companies in this field.

Rocket Lab is also using 3D printing successfully on their process: https://www.rocketlabusa.com/

> Relativity wants to make building a rocket almost entirely automated.

They sound as ambitious as Tesla was - for using automation in manufacturing Model 3.

Another startup idea - lets 3D print electric cars

I don't know how far the project has gone since their announcements, but there are startups doing this :)

https://all3dp.com/4/xev-start-production-3d-printed-electri...

"Relativity will try to realize its more ambitious long-term goal: taking this manufacturing process to the Red Planet and building a rocket using 3D printers on Mars."

Why not aim to build a fuel factory first, to refuel spacecraft for return trips?

Maybe because a fuel factory wouldn't be immediately profitable on Earth like building rockets? On Earth there are plenty of cheaper ways to make fuel.

I do agree though that fuel is the most important thing to start making on Mars though. That and air and water.

Is this the first YC backed Space startup?

No, there is also e.g. bagaveev.com .

Thanks