3D Printing in Space from Trusses to Organs

Made In Space robotic arms assembling a black tubular truss on a lab bench

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Je6nVap7ka0

In microgravity, additive manufacturing can build structures that would sag or need heavy fixtures on Earth — from long truss beams and spare tools to experimental tissue scaffolds.

Companies such as Made In Space have demonstrated robotic assembly and on-orbit printing concepts so future stations and habitats can fabricate parts in place instead of launching every bolt from the ground.

Friday March 12th 2021