Made in Space
Made in Space Zero-G 3D printer
A pioneering company of producing 3D-printed parts for use in outer space, this partnership signifies Made in Space’s transition from research phase, to manufacturing for commercial customers.
Made in Space and Axiom Space have announced an agreement to be users and providers of one another’s capabilities to manufacture products in space.
A pioneering company of producing 3D-printed parts for use in outer space, this partnership signifies Made in Space’s transition from research phase, to manufacturing for commercial customers. Meanwhile, its new partner, Axiom Space, is the leading developer of the world’s first privately-owned commercial space station.
Together, the companies have been working out the logistical elements of in-space manufacturing, outfitting the in-space factory with equipment, utilities, power and thermal management to answer customers’ growing demand. In parallel to the manufacturing element, the companies are working together to plan the delivery of completed products to Earth, ensuring their quality during flight and upon arrival.
Michael Suffredini, the President and CEO of Axiom Space and former ISS Program Manager, believes this new partnership will not only be important for modern manufacturing methods, but also, and perhaps more importantly, for civilisation.
“Made in Space carries a rich legacy in manufacturing,” said Suffredini. “This partnership marks an important next step in humanity’s reach into space. In-space manufacturing provides a unique class of products beneficial to the communications, materials and biomedical industries on Earth. We are thrilled to build a partnership with the individuals who have proven their abilities in zero-g flights and on (the) International Space Station.”
In addition to launching the world’s first commercial polymer and metal 3D printers to the International Space Station, Made in Space is in the process of developing a system to produce high-value optical fibres in space. Made in Space is planning to use this technology aboard Axiom’s station. Suffredini’s company believes this to be the ‘way of the future’ for manufacturers and researchers, and for servicing and expanding satellites and station capabilities.
Introducing 3D printing techniques into the aerospace industry has established Made in Space as a leading innovator in the industry. Andrew Rush, the CEO of Made in Space noted the partnership with Axiom will allow them to continue making and testing innovations designed for space, in space.
“Axiom and Made in Space are adding to the space ecosystem, serving a growing market and enabling innovative approaches from processes learned on the International Space Station,” said Rush. “This partnership allows us to continue to evolve and develop new products and allow our customers to invest in space manufacturing knowing that there will be an ongoing human presence on orbit. They are the ideal partner for manufacturing new technologies in space and leveraging our new capabilities.”
