Discussing Space-Based Additive Manufacturing at the 3DHEALS2020 Conference

Additive manufacturing in space has come a long way since the first prototype 3D printer from Made In Space was launched to the International Space Station (ISSInternational Space Station) in 2014. The Additive Manufacturing Facility (AMF), developed and operated by Made In Space, now serves as a permanent “machine shop” on the ISS, 3D printing tools and other objects for the ISS crew to use while in orbit. And in July 2019, Techshot’s BioFabrication Facility—the first American bioprinter on the ISS—launched to the orbiting laboratory, with the first space-based prints completed in December 2019 using human heart cells.

At the upcoming 3DHEALS2020 conference, ISS U.S. National Laboratory Commercial Innovation Manger Rachel Clemens will participate in a panel discussion on 3D printing and bioprinting in space. The conference, which will take place June 5-6 as a virtual event, is focused on healthcare 3D printing, 3D bioprinting, biofabrication, and related emerging technologies. Certain additive manufacturing processes can benefit from microgravityThe condition of perceived weightlessness created when an object is in free fall, for example when an object is in orbital motion. Microgravity alters many observable phenomena within the physical and life sciences, allowing scientists to study things in ways not possible on Earth. The International Space Station provides access to a persistent microgravity environment. conditions, and last month, Clemens participated in an interview with 3DHEALS and contributed an article to the organization’s “Experts Corner” blog to discuss space-based additive manufacturing.

Learn more about in-orbit production and additive manufacturing on the ISS National Lab in the related resources below.