Additive Manufacturing in Space: Enabling on-Demand Production for Space Exploration

EasyChair Preprint 14217

Abstract

Additive manufacturing (AM), or 3D printing, has emerged as a transformative technology in various fields, and its potential in space exploration is increasingly recognized. This abstract explores the role of AM in enabling on-demand production for space missions, addressing both its opportunities and challenges.

AM offers significant advantages for space exploration, including the capability to produce components and tools on-demand, which reduces the need for large, costly inventories and the complexities of transportation from Earth. This technology supports the fabrication of spare parts, tools, and even entire structures in space, leading to more efficient and adaptable mission operations. The flexibility of AM allows for the customization of components to meet specific mission requirements and the ability to rapidly iterate designs in response to unforeseen challenges.

Keyphrases: Additive Manufacturing in Space, Enabling On-Demand, production, space exploration

@booklet{EasyChair:14217,
  author    = {Favour Olaoye and Abram Gracias and Peter Broklyn},
  title     = {Additive Manufacturing in Space: Enabling on-Demand Production for Space Exploration},
  howpublished = {EasyChair Preprint 14217},
  year      = {EasyChair, 2024}}