Made in Space: Producing Tools on Demand

iss042e046048 (December 16, 2014) ---NASA astronaut Barry (Butch) Wilmore holds a 3D-printed tool made aboard the International Space Station. The 3D printer completed the first phase of a NASA technology demonstration by printing a ratchet wrench and other parts from a design file transmitted from the ground. 3D printing in space could allow astronauts to create tools and parts on demand—an essential capability for missions to the Moon and Mars, where resupply is limited and cargo space is tight.