Erstes im Weltraum 3D-gedrucktes Metallteil ebnet den Weg für tiefere Weltraummissionen – Je weiter man in den Weltraum vordringt, desto weniger kann man sich auf Nachschub von der Erde verlassen. Hier kommt der 3D-Druck ins Spiel

From the article

>Astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have used [ESA’s metal 3D printer](https://thenextweb.com/news/esa-worlds-first-metal-3d-printer-space-iss) to forge the first-ever metal part made entirely in [space](https://thenextweb.com/topic/space). 

>The achievement was part of a collaboration between ESA and Airbus that looks to develop Europe’s capabilities in space manufacturing. It could mark a step toward greater autonomy for long-term missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

>“Creating spare parts, construction components, and tools on demand will be essential for long-distance and long-duration missions,” said Daniel Neuenschwander, director of human and robotic exploration at ESA. 

>Built by Airbus, the 180kg printer can be used to repair or manufacture tools, mounting interfaces, and mechanical parts. It can print parts with a volume of nine centimetres high and five centimetres wide, with the process lasting about 40 hours.