First 3-D Printer Built in Space

The object, a printhead faceplate, is engraved with names of the organizations that collaborated on this space station technology demonstration: NASA and Made In Space, Inc., the space manufacturing company that worked with NASA to design, build and test the 3-D printer.

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First 3-D Printer Built in Space — Emmett Given/NASA

By NASA

1/4/2015Updated: 1/4/2015

The International Space Station’s 3-D printer has manufactured the first 3-D printed object in space, paving the way to future long-term space expeditions.

The printer works by extruding heated plastic, which then builds layer upon layer to create three-dimensional objects.

First 3-D Printer Built in Space

The International Space Station's 3-D printer has manufactured the first 3-D printed object in space, paving the way to future long-term space expeditions

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