Created: 2018-11-07
Updated: 2023-03-05
Product/Service - Refabricator, SpiderFab, LEO Knight
- Classification
- In-Space Manufacturing
- Category
- In-Space Manufacturing
On-Orbit Servicing
In-Space Assembly
In-Space Communications Relay
Robotic Arm
- Fields
- Material Recycling
Large Space Structures
In-Space Internet
- Status
- Launched, Development
- First launch
- 2018
Refabricator
Demonstrate in-space recycling and manufacturing to support long-duration manned space missions.
Payload called the Refabricator™ combines a plastic recycling system with a 3D printer to enable astronauts to recycle plastic waste into high-quality 3D printer filament, and then use that filament to fabricate new parts, medical implements, food utensils, and other items that the astronauts need to maintain their spacecraft and perform their missions.
SpiderFab
Developing a suite of technologies called "SpiderFab" to enable on-orbit fabrication of large spacecraft components such as antennas, solar panels, trusses, and other multifunctional structures. This includes Trusselator to create lengthy carbon composite structures and OrbWeaver to create satellite antenna.