Ariane 6 will launch 3D printing technology into space
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) May 20, 2024
Europe’s newest rocket, Ariane 6, is ready to launch, carrying multiple space missions. One notable mission is the Replicator, an Orbital Matter project, which will demonstrate new 3D printing technology in space.
The Replicator mission, a collaboration between Warsaw, Poland, and Berlin, Germany-based startup Orbital Matter, aims to show how 3D printing can be used in orbit, potentially enabling the creation of new space structures with fewer resources.
Orbital Matter aims to become the first construction company in space, focusing on manufacturing large elements of space infrastructure directly in orbit, on the Moon and on Mars. Its 3D printing method works without heat, making it faster to build structures in a vacuum.
3D printing was first tested in space on the International Space Station in 2014, proving useful for the on-demand manufacturing of tools and spare parts. However, no 3D printing technology has been shown to work in the harshest conditions outside the Space Station in open space.
Direct manufacturing in space means that large structures could be built with fewer materials, as they do not need to withstand launch conditions. This could lead to space-based solar power plants, communications antennas, larger telescopes and space stations.
Orbital Matter demonstrated its 3D printing technology in a vacuum on Earth. With the first launch of Ariane 6, they will perform their first demonstration in space, printing a 50 cm long beam from a CubeSat.
“Thanks to the ESA PUSH opportunity, we are demonstrating our 3D printer in orbit a remarkable 12 months ahead of schedule,” said Jakub Stojek, CEO of Orbital Matter. “This is an excellent example of how European technological independence can be built in space, by promoting rapid prototyping for startups across Europe.”
Robert Ihnatisin, chief technology officer at Orbital Matter, adds: “Ariane 6 will act as a catalyst for Europe’s renewed launch capabilities, and our experience during its maiden flight could help Europe become a leading player in fabrication in space, as we demonstrated it is indeed possible to 3D print in exposed space.”
Orbital Matter’s mission is supported by Paris-based launch provider RIDE! space, which organized a competition as part of ESA’s PUSH competition. WALK FROM! offers a digital platform for end-to-end launch services and support with launch onboarding and promotion.
“We are delighted to be part of European space history with our presence at the inaugural launch of Ariane 6”, explains Valentin Benoit, RIDE! CEO. “The entire team is working hand in hand with Orbital Matter to finalize the launch campaign for this ambitious and disruptive 3D printing space mission. I would like to thank Arianespace, the Space Transport teams at ESA and CIC for their support during the launch preparations.”
Ariane 6 is designed for maximum versatility, capable of placing any satellite or payload into any orbital trajectory with its new restartable Vinci engine.
Related Links
Orbital Matter
Rocket Science News at Space-Travel.Com
