3D Printing in Space

3D printing in space faces major challenges in microgravity and the vacuum conditions. On Earth, filament-based printers work well, but in space, the risk for the filaments to jam or break creates the need for an alternative. To remedy the situation, engineers at the University of Glasgow designed a printer that uses granular material instead of filaments. Such granules flow better, allowing the printing of objects using 3D technology with reliability even in zero-gravity conditions.

This technology holds significant promise for the future missions to space. Rather than sending bulk equipment on rockets, astronauts would be able to print tools and parts on demand in space. This minimizes the weight and volume that need to go on the initial launch, thereby making flights safer with less potential for failure. This also provides for more flexible designs, as parts need not withstand the violent launching. Space missions are now able to travel with smaller payloads but address issues on the fly with the ability to print customized parts.

There are also major benefits for people on Earth. In microgravity, crystals and pharmaceuticals can be produced in purer and more effective forms due to reduced convection. This would bring the potential for the creation of new drugs that cannot be easily developed on Earth. There is also the potential for space 3D printing to aid technologies such as better communication devices and solar reflectors. Such technologies would improve life on Earth but would also push the limits of space exploration.