China successfully demonstrates metal 3D printing technology in space

China has completed a demonstration of space metal 3D printing technology in space, said the Institute of Mechanics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) on Monday, marking a major milestone in space manufacturing.

The Institute of Mechanics, in collaboration with the CAS Innovation Academy for Microsatellites, successfully demonstrated in-orbit metal additive manufacturing, commonly known as metal 3D printing, in the previously launched Qingzhou Cargo Spacecraft Test Vehicle.

Unlike conventional Earth-based 3D printing, space metal 3D printing must overcome unique challenges posed by microgravity, including metal droplet transition, liquid bridge stability and molten pool evolution. It also faces a series of engineering challenges, such as lightweight payload design, launch vibrations, energy interface adaptation, remote control and telemetry, autonomous operation and in-orbit safety.

During the demonstration, the 3D printing device aboard the Qingzhou (or "light boat") spacecraft autonomously executed commands from the ground. Using a laser wire-feed process, it completed metal melt deposition in a stable and smooth manner, successfully verifying reliable multiple remote-controlled start-stop operations.

The demonstration also tested core capabilities, including compatibility between the payload and the spacecraft, fully automated process execution, data and image transmission, and metal melt deposition processes under space conditions.

The technology is expected to shift space missions from the traditional "bring what you need" approach to a "make what you need" model. In the future, it can be used in scenarios such as in-orbit manufacturing and maintenance, production of spare parts for space facilities, structural component repair and autonomous support for deep-space missions.

The research team plans to work with other partners to expand testing under longer durations and more complex conditions, accelerating the transition from technology demonstration to practical in-orbit use.

(With input from Xinhua)