Audience
Students
Grade Levels
Grades 5-8, Grades 9-12
Subject
Careers, Physical Science, Technology
Type
Hands-on Activities, Videos
Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is transforming space exploration. Onboard the International Space Station, astronauts are using this technology to create tools, test innovative materials, and prepare for future long-duration missions to destinations like the Moon and Mars. In the 3D Printing STEMonstration video, NASA astronaut Sunita Williams shares how 3D printing enables real-time problem solving and supports essential research by manufacturing tools directly in orbit.
STEMonstrations are short, 3–5-minute educational videos filmed by crew aboard the International Space Station. They use the unique microgravity environment on station to demonstrate popular precollege STEM topics.
3D Hands-on Activity
3D Printing Career Connection
- Check out the NASA Technology Transfer Program’s computational tool to model and evaluate additively manufactured parts.
- Get an inside look into additive manufacturing careers in this 23-minute episode of NASA Edge.
- Explore the unique role of an aerospace technician in this Surprisingly STEM episode.
- Watch this web-chat episode of NASA STEM Stars to learn more about the inspiring work Additive Manufacturing Engineers do at NASA.
- Apply for NASA Internships.
- Discover the team of engineers and engineering technicians that comprise the Kennedy Space Center Prototype Laboratory.