This paper describes the process to-date of developing a 3D printer for in-space printer and planned future work. Unlike prior work on the International Space Station, this work aims to develop a printer that operates in microgravity and the low-temperature and near-vacuum orbital environment. The use of 3D printing in space can lower mass and volume, through launching materials in their raw (and typically more compact) form and allowing design for only the orbital environment (instead of to withstand terrestrial construction and launch forces). This paper discusses the process of design and development, including work on designing a large-scale (end-goal) printer and several flight testing and demonstration units (including a CubeSat test, currently being prepared for flight).
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