For the first time scientists did 3D printing of metal part in space

3D Printing in Space: Scientific experiments being conducted in space are achieving new heights every day. ESA i.e. European Space Agency has demonstrated 3D printing of a metal part in space for the first time. 3D printing in space is challenging because there is no gravity. Due to this the quality of printing may deteriorate. However, scientists have overcome this challenge and demonstrated a perfect 3D printing.

spacedotcom’s Report According to, 3D printing of a metal part involves melting the metal. There were bound to be problems in printing in space without gravity. To deal with these challenges, scientists set things according to the conditions on the International Space Station (ISS).

Scientists conducted tests for several months and adapted the printer to an environment of micro gravity. After this, he prepared the first part of the metal part in space with the help of 3D printing. The team plans to print 2 more items. Whatever has just been printed will be sent to Earth for quality check.

This is how 3D printing was done in space

Scientists melted a stainless steel wire using a laser on the International Space Station. Metal fiber was prepared from it, from which 3D printing was done. The European Space Agency says that by 3D printing a metal part in space, scientists achieved the ability to manufacture in space. This will be helpful in future missions. Scientists feel that they will be able to produce spare parts and construction related items if needed in long distance space missions.

If the use of 3D printing becomes possible on a large scale in space, then scientists will not need to transport materials from Earth. By taking raw material into space, everything needed can be manufactured there.