ESA collected for the first time an object manufactured outside the earth

A metal piece made entirely in space was delivered to scientists at the European Space Agency (ESA) for study. This advance marks one before and after in space exploration.

For the first time, ESA has a metal part made entirely in space. The object was created by 3D printing aboard the module Columbus of the International Space Station (ISS), which represents a Technological Framework with important implications for the future of space missions.

The metal 3D printer that made possible this achievement was developed by the Airbus Defence and Spacein collaboration with the. Its installation was in charge of the astronaut Andreas Mogensenwhich activated the system during its mission. Since then, several models have been printed, including a ‘S’ form and two complete samples, which have already been returned to Earth.

The manufacture of microgravity parts brings specific challenges. The absence of gravity directly affects the behavior of the metal powder, which should be contained and directed with extreme precision. For this, the printer uses a high power laser that fuses the layer material by layer in a resistant airtight camera Temperaturas upper from 1.400 ° c.

«A Metal 3D space printing is promising To support future exploration activities, but also, to contribute to more sustainable space activities through manufacturing, repair and possibly recycling on-site of spatial structures, ”he explained Tommaso GhidiniHead of the ESA Department of Mechanics.

According to this technology, it will be possible to manufacture tools or spare parts directly in space, which would allow to dramatically reduce the dependence on land launches, a Key factor in long -term missionslike those designed for the moon or Mars.

Besides increasing self -sufficiency, This innovation opens the door to new applicationssuch as the construction of orbital infrastructures or the repair of equipment in real time. The versatility of the metal 3D printing in space could also facilitate the use of metal waste generated during the missions.