First metal parts 3D printed in space land on Earth for testing
The sample was produced by ESA’s metal 3D printer on the International Space Station
The first samples of metal parts 3D printed in space by ESA’s metal DED system on the ISS have arrived on Earth. They will now be tested in the Materials and Electrical Components Laboratory at ESTEC. The parts will be compared to samples printed on Earth to understand how microgravity affects the printing process. Another sample will be handed to the Technical University of Denmark (DTU).
While astronauts have previously operated plastic 3D printers on the International Space Station, this marks the first successful metal 3D printing activity on orbit. As missions venture farther from Earth, in-space manufacturing will be crucial for self-sufficiency, allowing astronauts to manufacture essential parts, repair equipment and create tools on demand, without relying on costly resupply missions.
The metal 3D printer on the ISS, based on DED technology and using metal wire as feedstock, was developed by an industrial team led by Airbus Defence and Space under a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA), co-funded by Airbus Defence and Space. It leverages technology that French metal 3D printer manufacturer AddUp acquired through the merger with BeAM.
The metal 3D printer was designed to evaluate the capabilities and performance of additive technology and to perform metal deposition in 3D under sustained microgravity conditions. The metal 3D printer was successfully launched by NASA Mission NG-20 towards the International Space Station on January 30th, 2024.
The ability to manufacture spare parts directly in space without having to transport them from Earth marks a new stage in propelling the next generation of space exploration. This will generate millions in savings and make human spaceflight viable through autonomous operation.
