NASA Will Launch a Toaster Sized 3D Printer to Space

Sometime next fall NASA plans to launch a 3D Printer the size of the average toaster into space. The printer will allow astronauts to print out small parts, whether it's to fix the space shuttle, or perform an operation on the space station. It could be the difference between life or death, as currently every extra pound of material that is brought to space costs an exponential amount in fuel for lift off. The fact that they can bring a small printer and only print what they need will save NASA a tremendous amount of money and perhaps even saves lives.

More details: http://www.theguardian.com/science/2...-printer-space
http://www.straitstimes.com/breaking-news/world/story/nasa-preparing-launch-3d-printer-space-20130930

A giant leap for 3D Printing indeed !!! The day is not far when 3D Printers will be printing bulk of supplies required for maintaining the space stations. They could also be used in a similar manner for the long haul journey to Mars which is being planned by NASA.

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Originally Posted by 3dprintronics

A giant leap for 3D Printing indeed !!! The day is not far when 3D Printers will be printing bulk of supplies required for maintaining the space stations. They could also be used in a similar manner for the long haul journey to Mars which is being planned by NASA.

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Very good points. Space travel will be so much easier when all you need is a 3D printer for much of your supplies, tools, and other items.