The impact of additive manufacturing on space exploration

Abstract

In order to enable space structures outside the typical envelopes of launch vehicle fairings and thus reduce mission costs, additive manufacturing technologies will be used in the future. This thesis investigates the current state of the art and benefits of additive manufacturing for space exploration, focusing on extraterrestrial habitats and large satellite structures. The quality, readiness, and versatility of the examined manufacturing technologies were evaluated by establishing key figures of merit. In addition, possible applications deviating from traditional mission concepts using additive manufacturing and their feasibility were evaluated. It was possible to show an overview of the in-space additive manufacturing industry and the influence of the developing technologies for future missions.