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Aug 3, 2011

3D Systems Ventures Into Space - 3D Printing Now Possible In Zero Gravity Conditions

3D Systems Corporation announced today that its affordable BfB™ 3000 3D printer successfully completed two zero-gravity test flights in partnership with MADE IN SPACE, a start-up dedicated to providing solutions for manufacturing in outer space.

MADE IN SPACE believes that the advantages of 3D printing make it the perfect system for use in outer space. “3D printing and in-space manufacturing will dramatically change the way we look at space exploration, commercialization, and mission design today,” said Aaron Kemmer, CEO and Co-Founder of MADE IN SPACE. “The possibilities range from building on-demand parts for human missions to building large space habitats that are optimized for space.”
“We are pleased that our Bits From Bytes 3D Printer performed well in zero gravity conditions,” said Cathy Lewis, Vice President of Marketing for 3D Systems.
MADE IN SPACE plans additional zero-gravity and suborbital testing over the next twelve months.

Made in Space is developing the technology needed for in-space manufacturing. The company is innovating additive manufacturing (3D printing) to work in zero gravity and space environments in order to build the framework for humanity’s future in space—a future where space stations, spacecraft, and even satellites are built in space for space. MADE IN SPACE was conceived from looking at exponential technologies at Singularity University and how they impact the future.