Made in Space tests a 3D printer in microgravity (Credits: Made in Space).

A new device developed by California based company Made in Space, Inc. may enable manufacturing of simple tools and spare parts for maintenance or emergency repairs aboard the International Space Station. Made in Space was awarded a contract to develop the technology at the end of November as part of NASA’s Small Business Innovation Research program (SBIR). The technology could make the ISS crew more self-sufficient and less dependent on Earth for supplies. The system, known as the Additive Manufacturing Facility, is capable of building a part layer by layer, with an efficient use of material.  According to the Made in Space proposal, “the process leads to reduction in cost, mass, labor and production time.” The device is also promising when it comes to provisioning future

The 3D printing method might open the door for future manufacturing directly in space (Credits: Made in Space).

long duration missions and has potential to support commercial interests like building or assembling small satellites directly in space.  The following video explains the principles of 3D printing. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YylxVAc5Bk8]

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