Eric Schmidt, a well-known figure in tech, has taken the reins at a space company called Relativity Space. This move has been quietly discussed for a while. It seems Schmidt has been funding the company since last October.  This is a big deal because Relativity Space is one of the few companies in the US trying to build a rocket that can compete with SpaceX's Falcon 9.  If Relativity Space's rocket, called the Terran R, becomes a success, it could be a game-changer for launching big groups of satellites.

        Schmidt's new role means Tim Ellis, who started the company and has been its public face for nearly a decade, is stepping back from his leadership role.  Ellis, however, will stay involved as a co-founder and board member.  This shift in leadership is a big deal.  It's like when a popular teacher leaves the classroom, and a new one takes over.  The students might be excited, but they also might be nervous.  The same thing could happen at Relativity Space.

        Relativity Space also released a video about their rocket's progress.  Ellis only appears briefly in the video.  Instead, other top officials, like Chief Operating Officer Zach Dunn, are featured.  This could mean that the company is trying to show that it has a strong team in place, even with the change in leadership.

        The space industry is always changing.  Companies are always trying to outdo each other.  This move by Schmidt could be a big step for Relativity Space.  It could also mean big changes for the company and the industry as a whole.  Only time will tell how this new chapter will unfold.  The space industry is always full of surprises.  This could be one of them.

ERIC SCHMIDT

Silicon Valley's New Rocket Star

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