Rapid Prototyping and components of the shelf for sounding rocket experiments

Abstract

The development and construction of hardware for space experiments is increasingly utilizing new technologies, such as 3D printing. Compartments of the shelf (COTS), e.g. microcontrollers, sensors and actuators, which are easy to obtain from public retailers, are also playing an important role in the construction and realization of experiments. As part of the DLR MAPHEUS rocket program, COTS products and rapid prototyping in form of 3D prints have already been used to successfully conduct life science experiments in microgravity. Development of printable materials and the availability of electronic components is opening a new world of experiment development for sounding rockets and other platforms. This trend in the growing new space sector also enables the application-based training of young scientists. The presentation will provide an overview of the life science experiments that have already been carried out and the prospect of future ones.