By: Matt. Z
10/13/23
Part Three of a Three series describes how 3D printing has influenced the Space Industry.
In a monumental stride towards sustainable space exploration, experts emphasize the significance of repurposing materials within the ambit of space manufacturing. Tracie Prater, co-investigator and materials engineer at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), underscored the importance of this approach, asserting that recycling existing materials reverses the need to transport large amounts of fresh feedstock into space, a move that could have far-reaching implications for the future of space missions.
A pivotal development in this endeavor has been the Made in Space Recycler launch to the International Space Station. This innovative mission seeks to determine which materials are most suitable for recycling into 3D printing filament, assessing their durability over multiple uses without degradation. This investigation, underwritten and executed through the ISS National Lab, promises to reshape how materials are managed in the cosmic realm.
The ISM Project, while making strides in recycling, is also dedicated to pioneering higher-strength plastics and streamlining processes that employ metal. These efforts are constrained by the space station's size and power limitations, but their potential implications are immense. The objective is to address the pressing need for on-demand manufacturing of metal components, particularly for exploration missions. As Prater aptly noted, many crucial parts required for these missions are composed of metal, making it the next frontier in this remarkable journey of innovation.
As Prater points out, an equally significant challenge lies in inspecting parts produced in space. Ensuring that each piece meets the stringent requirements for its intended use is paramount, necessitating the development of robust inspection processes.
The culmination of these efforts is poised to redefine the landscape of future exploration missions, granting them a newfound independence from Earth's resources. Furthermore, the ISM Project boasts a plethora of commercial partners, aligning seamlessly with NASA's low-Earth orbit commercialization initiatives. This venture not only holds the potential to revolutionize space exploration but also liberates valuable space once consumed by the storage of spare parts. The vision of an autonomous and resource-efficient space environment is inching closer to reality, promising a brighter future for cosmic endeavors.
Keywords: Additive Manufacturing, 3D Printing, Tracie Prater, Made In Space, NASA, Recycling, Eco- Friendly, Tracie Prater
Which celestial body should we colonize first and create 3D printed homes?
0%The Moon
0%Mars
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