NASA supports a demo that will print 3D spaceship spaces in orbit

Made In Space already had 3D printed beams in 2017, when it was using a NASA location that simulated some of the conditions of space. This, of course, is another challenge: it introduces microgravity and lack of human support in case of problems.

This is the beginning of a second phase of a partnership between the two companies. If successful, this could change the way NASA and others plan to build and repair spacecraft. This could lead to the construction of spacecraft (albeit smaller at this stage) in orbit, of course, but it could also allow space agencies to launch small satellites that will receive large power collectors once they will fly over the Earth. It could also reduce the number of spacewalks by having robots build objects that would otherwise require human intervention. Star Trek– the orbital shipyards are still very far, but this demo is a step in the right direction.