Additive Manufacturing in space offers tremendous potential for dramatic paradigm shift in the development and manufacturing of space architectures. Additive Manufacturing in space offers the potential for mission safety risk reduction for low Earth orbit and deep space exploration; new paradigms for maintenance, repair, and logistics. Leverage ground-based technology developments, process characterization, and material properties databases. Investments are required primarily in the microgravity environment. We must do the foundational work. It's not sexy, but it is required.

Clinton, Raymond G.↗

NASA NTRS2003

Strategic Research Directions in Microgravity Materials Science

The next challenge of space exploration is the development of the capabilities for long-term missions beyond low earth orbit. NASA s scientific advisory groups and internal mission studies have identified several fundamental issues which require substantial advancements in new technology if these goals are to be accomplished. Crews must be protected from the severe radiation environment beyond the earth s magnetic field. Chemical propulsion must be replaced by systems that require less mass and are more efficient. The overall launch complement must be reduced by developing repair and fabrication techniques which utilize or recycle available materials.

Clinton, Raymond G.↗