The rationale for 3D printing in space
Since the discontinuation of NASA's space shuttle program, agencies have been looking for ways to reduce the cost of traveling into space. The efforts being made by privateers like the SpaceX Corporation have emboldened other innovators to begin making tangible, real world contributions to making traveling into and living in space a less expensive and altogether more viable proposition.
Towards making supply runs obsolete
With the cost of a launching a rocket into space coming in at tens of millions of dollars, the prospect of sending a payload to the International Space Station (ISS) laden with spare parts and componentry makes cost-conscious governments and space agencies understandably reticent.
By developing highly innovative gravity simulation technology, 3D Printer Technology has helped to start a trend that could one day eliminate the need for supply runs to orbital assets and, in doing so, help to save billions of dollars.
