It seems all the tech bosses are keen to conquer outer space.
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt has been appointed CEO of rocket startup Relativity Space, replacing co-founder Tim Ellis in the role, a company spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch.
Schmidt, who led Google from 2001 to 2011, has also made a big investment in the company, taking a controlling stake, according to The New York Times.
Reusable rockets
This is a major shift for the space startup, which is developing reusable rockets for medium-to-heavy-lift launches.
Relativity Space, known for its advancements in 3D-printed rocket technology, previously launched the Terran 1, the world’s first 3D-printed rocket, though the mission ended in failure shortly after takeoff.
The company is now focused on developing the Terran R, a reusable rocket aimed at medium-to-heavy payload launches, with a planned debut in late 2026.
Ellis, who co-founded Relativity Space in 2015, will remain involved as a board member.
He backed Schmidt’s leadership, writing on X: “Today marks a powerful new chapter as Eric Schmidt becomes Relativity’s CEO, while also providing substantial financial backing.
“I know there’s no one more tenacious or passionate to propel this dream forward.”
Schmidt joins other tech bros
Schmidt’s appointment places him among other high-profile executives who have transitioned into the commercial space sector, including Elon Musk with SpaceX and Jeff Bezos with Blue Origin.
Former Amazon executive Dave Limp also joined Blue Origin as CEO in 2023.
Relativity Space has yet to comment further on the leadership transition.