NASA is looking to put the first ever 3D printer in space on the International Space Station (ISS) in August of 2014. There are many exciting applications for how they will put this printer to use:
Currently whenever the ISS needs a tool or part replaced or made, it must be sent up from earth, costing a lot of money in fuel. However with this new technology, astronauts will be able to manufacture parts right on board the ISS. This will save time and money while further advancing space exploration. There is still work and testing to be done with different materials and metals, as well as microgravity applications, but the future looks promising. An article detailing more of how NASA will use this 3D printer can be found here.
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