“There were dozens of specific problems we had to solve in constructing a 3D printer for the Space Station. From thermal process adjustments to rigorous safety requirements, the challenges our team had to overcome were numerous, and we’re deeply proud to see the results of the work done by the Made In Space and NASA MSFC team now head out for a grand field test,” said Kemmer.

This first printer will be using ABS plastic while the second generation unit, scheduled for delivery to ISS in 2015, will offer multiple material capacity and an increased build volume. The second Made In Space printer will be available for use by businesses, researchers and anyone who wants to create in-space hardware rapidly, affordably, and safely.

“Placing additive manufacturing in space will lead to similar capabilities on every future space station, deep space exploration vehicle, and space colony,” said Kemmer. “Rapid construction of important materials is a critical need if humans are going to establish a greater footprint in our universe.”

Made In Space developed the zero-gravity printer through NASA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The prototype unit was tested on Zero-G Corporation’s modified Boeing 727 parabolic airplane, made possible by NASA’s Flight Opportunities Program. The flight unit passed NASA’s extensive safety and operational standards on the way to being deemed flight ready.

Kemmer said, “This is more than a 3D printer. It’s more than a machine shop in space. It’s a landmark for humanity. For the first time in the history of our species, we will be manufacturing tools and hardware away from the Earth. Now that we’ve made this breakthrough, the sky is no longer the limit for additive manufacturing – the era of off-world manufacturing has begun.”

About Made In Space
Founded in 2010 with the goal of enabling humanity’s future in space, Made In Space, Inc. has developed additive manufacturing technology for use in zero-gravity. By constructing hardware that can build what is needed in space, as opposed to launching it from Earth, the company plans to accelerate and broaden space development while also providing unprecedented access for people on Earth to use in-space manufacturing capabilities.

Made In Space’s team consists of successful entrepreneurs, experienced space experts and key 3D printing developers. With over 30,000+ hours of 3D printing technology testing, and 400+ parabolas of microgravity test flights, Made In Space’s experience and expertise has led to the first 3D printers designed for use on the International Space Station.

For more information about Made In Space, visit: www.madeinspace.us
Follow on Twitter @_MadeInSpace
Facebook: www.facebook.com/WeAreMadeInSpace

Images and video can be found at madeinspace.us

The Microgravity Science Glovebox in which the Zero Gravity 3D Printing Experiment will be conducted. Image courtesy of NASA / Emmett Given

CTO Jason Dunn (left) and Lead Engineer Mike Snyder (right) analyze a printed part from the Zero Gravity Printer. Image courtesy of Made In Space, Inc.

CEO Aaron Kemmer during one of the many parabolic flights flown to study the effects of 3D printing in micro gravity. Image courtesy of Made In Space, Inc.

3D Printing in Zero Gravity Mission Patch next to the Zero Gravity Printer. Image courtesy of Made In Space, Inc.

Aaron Kemmer looking at the Zero Gravity Printer in the Microgravity Science Glovebox.  Image courtesy of NASA / Emmett Given