Advanced 3D printer
Currently, all space-bound equipment is manufactured on Earth and launched into orbit by rockets. This method faces limitations in terms of mass and volume. Moreover, the launch process itself can be risky as sometimes it may damage expensive payloads due to mechanical stress.
Space-based fabricators could overcome these issues.
Unlike traditional 3D printers that use filaments, this new system utilizes a special granular material designed to work perfectly in space. This material flows smoothly, even in microgravity, ensuring reliable printing.
“The filaments in conventional 3D printers often break or jam in microgravity and in vacuum, which is a problem that needs to be solved before they can be reliably used in space. Through this research, we now have technology that brings us much closer to being able to do that, providing positive impacts for the whole world in the years to come,” said Bailet.