When astronauts are in space, it can be difficult and frustrating to get common parts or tools they need for their work. Now, instead of contacting NASA for what they need to be sent in a cargo spacecraft, many objects the astronauts desire will be 3D printed. On September 19, SpaceX will be delivering thousands of pounds of equipment to the International Space Station, including a 3D printer.
SpaceX, owned by Elon Musk of Tesla, has been delivering cargo to the International Space Station since 2012, but it has never brought a 3D printer. It took the California company Made in Space a while to learn how to create a 3D printer that can operate without gravity, considering the printing is done in layers as they are pulled down by gravity, but they've finally done it. They tested the printer in an aircraft that does parabolic flight to simulate zero gravity.
The 3D printer will print plastic tools and parts for the astronauts in the space station, and they will be able to test how useful the printer really can be. NASA has also funded studies to look into the idea of 3D printing food for their astronauts in space.