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The International Space Station is celebrating its 20th anniversary since the launch of its first section on November 20, 1998.
In addition to more than 250 scientific experiments as part of a replenishment mission launched this morning (Nov. 17), the station is receiving a new birthday present: a hybrid recycler and a 3D printer that melts the plastic to create new tools for the space station staff. .
NASA
While the "Refabricator", as it is called, is supposed to be useful on board the ISS, its true value could lie in longer exploration missions. The ISS is close enough to the Earth to provide new tools and equipment on a regular basis, but on trips where this is not possible, the Refabricator could help turn unnecessary parts into necessary parts.
"Without a recycling capacity, a large amount of raw material should be stored on board for long-term exploration missions," says the NASA website.
The Refabricator also means that less 3D printer filament must be sent to the ISS, leaving more room for other experiments and equipment.
According to NASA, such technology could have applications here on Earth, such as recycling plastic bags and bottles into useful materials.
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