IN-SPACE MANUFACTURING: AN OVERVIEW OF CURRENT TECHNOLOGIES, CHALLENGES, AND PATHWAYS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEEP-SPACE EXPLORATION

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-2025

Abstract

In-Space Manufacturing (ISM) is emerging as a foundational capability for sustainable deep-space missions by enabling the fabrication, assembly, and repair of components directly in space. This review examines the current state of ISM technologies, focusing on additive and conventional manufacturing methods and the use of Earth-derived and in-situ resources. Projects such as NASA's Refabricator, ICON's Project Olympus, and the PERIOD initiative demonstrate the transition from experimental prototypes to functional systems capable of supporting long-duration lunar and Martian missions. The paper analyzes the materials and processes suited for ISM, including advanced polymers, metallic alloys, lunar regolith, and Martian soil, by highlighting the technical, logistical, and environmental challenges in space-based operations. It also explores emerging strategies such as hybrid manufacturing, AI-driven process control, and integrated computational materials engineering (ICME) that aim to scale ISM technologies. By aligning engineering innovations with sustainability and autonomy goals, this review outlines a pathway for evolving ISM from isolated demonstrations to robust infrastructure supporting long-term human presence beyond Earth.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition Proceedings Imece

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