Mitsubishi
Instead of using rockets to transport components for satellites into space, they are to be produced directly in the void of space using 3D printing.
Mitsubishi has developed a 3D printer that works in space and can produce components for satellites there. The 3D printer from the Japanese group uses a special resin that takes advantage of the conditions in space.
The first application of the new method will be the production of antenna dishes for mini-satellites. Transporting the dishes into space already assembled is complicated because they take up a lot of space in the launch vehicle and are sensitive to the vibrations during launch.
Liquid resin for vacuum
The liquid resin used in the space printer has been specially adapted to the vacuum and does not require any oxygen to remain liquid. However, it hardens when exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
In the solid state, it can then withstand temperatures of 400 degrees Celsius, far more than would be expected in Earth orbit even under direct sunlight.
Huge space stations from the printer?
So far, Mitsubishi has only demonstrated the technology in a vacuum chamber on Earth. Antenna dishes with a diameter of 16.5 centimeters were produced. First, the 3D printer is to be installed in mini satellites, which can then print their own dishes in orbit.
In principle, however, the technology is capable of producing much larger objects in space. Structures such as huge space stations might be built that would not fit into any rocket in the world.
