Printing the Space Future Testing
Project Description
Made in Space, Inc. will fly 3D printers on parabolic and sub-orbital research flights to further develop the application of 3D printing technology to micro- and zero-gravity environments. The 3D printing method used on these flights will be Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), a technique that has already undergone limited testing in microgravity conditions, in which a feedstock is melted and extruded in a predefined pattern. These test flights and subsequent evaluation of the constructed materials will enhance the TRL level of in-situ space manufacturing via 3D printing techniques.
ISS experiment page
Additive Manufacturing For Space overview
SBIR Phase I (2012)
SBIR Phase II (2013)
STTR Phase I (2014)
SBIR Phase I (2014)
Anticipated Benefits
Increased independence from Earth is a necessity for space missions to Mars and beyond, and 3D printing is a valuable cost-saving, time-saving, and safety-enhancing convenience even for missions much nearer to home. In-space 3D printing technology is being used in NASA-funded missions on the International Space Station.
More »Project Library
Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Made in Space, Inc. | Lead Organization | Industry | JACKSONVILLE, Florida |
| Redwire Space Technologies, Inc. | Supporting Organization | Industry | Greenville, Indiana |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
California
