Scottish Researchers Pave the Way for Space Factories With Zero Gravity 3D Printing

3D printing in space travel has made considerable progress in recent years. Initiatives from both NASA, which is researching the use of additive manufacturing in space including for structures, and the ESA, which has tested metal 3D printing on the International Space Station, mark the significant progress that has been made. Now, researchers at the University of Glasgow in Scotland have developed a system that could solve the problems of 3D printing in zero gravity. This progress paves the way for factories in orbit that can apply technologies directly in space as required.

For several years, Dr. Gilles Bailet from the University of Glasgow has been developing a prototype 3D printer specifically designed to operate in space. Recently, his technology underwent intensive testing during several test flights on board a research aircraft nicknamed the “vomit comet” (yes that is its real name). But how does this technology work and what is its purpose? Let’s take a look!

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Space Factories: Using 3D Printing to Advance Humanity’s Ambitions

According to Dr. Bailet, successful 3D printing in low-gravity environments could enable the development of space factories capable of manufacturing complex devices directly in space. These technologies could include solar reflectors, advanced communication antennas or equipment for manufacturing more efficient medicines. Instead of using conventional filaments, the team designed a granular material specifically suited for space that allows for fast removal and delivery to the printer’s nozzle, even in microgravity.