Once all the initial chatter quieted down regarding the 3D printer being sent to the ISS, many individuals may not be aware that astronauts have been busy putting their Made in Space Zero-G 3D printer to use, having completed multiple calibration and stress tests, as well as the 3D printing of a storage container and a fully-functioning ratchet. The ratchet was of particular significance because NASA emailed the design to the ISS after Commander “Butch” Willmore made a comment regarding the need for a wrench. The astronauts were able to upload the design and 3D print it — and use it — in a direct example of why NASA foresees 3D printing to have such great potential use and impact in space travel and future colonization concepts. Read more about it in the full article: http://3dprint.com/40026/3d-printing-in-space/


Below is a graphic looking at the various 3D printing tests run on the ISS: