Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt is the newest Big Tech-to-space exec

Eric Schmidt, who was the CEO of Google from 2001 to 2011, is now the CEO of rocket startup Relativity Space, a company spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch. Schmidt will be replacing Relativity Space co-founder Tim Ellis in the CEO role.

Schmidt isn’t alone in the segment – Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos are known for their work with SpaceX and Blue Origin, respectively, and former Amazon executive Dave Limp took over as CEO of Blue Origin in 2023.

Relativity Space launched “the world’s first 3D printed rocket,” called the Terran 1, though it failed shortly after launch. It’s also working on the Terran R, which it says is “our reusable medium-to-heavy-lift launch vehicle.” The company posted a press release on Monday detailing updates on Terran R’s development ahead of a planned “late 2026” launch.

Schmidt also told Relativity Space employees today that he has made a significant investment in the company and taken a controlling stake, according to The New York Times. Relativity Space didn’t immediately reply to a request for comment.

“Today marks a powerful new chapter as Eric Schmidt @ericschmidt becomes Relativity’s CEO, while also providing substantial financial backing,“ Ellis says in a post on X. “I know there’s no one more tenacious or passionate to propel this dream forward. We have been working together to ensure a smooth transition, and I’ll proudly continue to support the team as Co-founder and Board member.”