Textbook in PDF format

This book introduces an important and interesting aspect of space exploration technology: 3D printing in space. It explores the key techniques and application scenarios of this innovative technology. With several countries announcing moon missions, the dream of venturing into the vast universe is becoming a reality. 3D printing offers immense potential for space exploration efforts. Featuring over 100 color graphics, this book not only explains fundamental theories and research advances in an easily understandable way but also addresses practical questions like achieving "waste recycling" in spacecraft and printing "houses" on the moon's surface. Additionally, it provides insights on dealing with component failures during deep space missions. Drawing from the authors' extensive research and development work in satellite payload technology, this book combines solid theoretical knowledge with practical engineering experience. It is a valuable resource for students, researchers, and engineers interested in space exploration and astronautics. Let this book serve as a vessel for readers to embark on their journey through the sea of stars.
The English translation of this book, originally in Chinese, was facilitated by artificial intelligence. The content was later revised by the author for accuracy.
Preface
About This Book
About the Authors
What is 3D Printing in Space
What is 3D Printing
Why We Print Satellites and Other Spacecraft
What is the Difference Between 3D Printing in Space and on the Ground
Challenges Faced by 3D Printing in Space
Prospects of 3D Printing in Space
Existing 3D Printing Technologies
Fused Deposition Modeling Technology
Electron Beam Freeform Fabrication Technology
Selective Laser Sintering Technology
Stereolithography Technology
Concentrated Solar Power Technology
3D Printing of Artificial Satellites and Rockets
Materials Suitable for Use in Space
ABS Plastic
New High Polymer Compound Materials
Metal Materials
Piezoelectric Materials
3D Printed Satellite Components
3D Printed Filters
3D Printed Antennas
3D Printed Loop Heat Pipe
3D Printed Atmospheric Spectrometer Mirror
New Welding Technology Based on 3D Printing
3D Printing of Satellite Structure
3D Printed Rockets
3D Printing Rocket Engine Components
Existing 3D Printed Rockets
3D Printed Rocket Launch and Landing Devices
3D Printed Engine Components
3D Printed Small Satellites
On-Orbit 3D Printing
Challenges Faced by Spacecraft and Others in On-Orbit 3D Printing
Microgravity 3D Printing Equipment
In-Orbit 3D Printing of Composite Materials
On-Orbit 3D Printing of Satellite Components
On-Orbit Recycling of Materials
On-Orbit Construction and Assembly
On-Orbit Construction 3D Printer Arm
In-Orbit Construction of Large Space Trusses
In-Orbit Repair of Large Space Equipment
In-Orbit 3D Printed Satellites
3D Printing in Deep Space Exploration
Challenges Faced by 3D Printing of Lunar and Other Planetary Bases
Where Does the Raw Material Needed for Printing Planetary Bases Come From
Latest Developments in 3D Printing Technology for Lunar Bases in Various Countries
China’s Lunar Base Development Concept and 3D Printing Technology
NASA’s Lunar Base 3D Printing Technology
European Space Agency’s Lunar Base 3D Printing Technology
3D Printing in Mars Base
Mars Life Health and Exploration Mission
Mars Dune Alpha
In-Situ 3D Printing of Mars Base
3D Printing in Deep Space Exploration Instruments
New Materials Suitable for Deep Space Exploration Under Extreme Temperature Environments
New Materials for Space 3D Printing
3D Printing of Metallic Materials
Heterogeneous Dual Metal 3D Printing
3D Printing of Large Copper Parts
3D Printing of Iron Nickel Metal
3D Printing of Titanium Metal
3D Printing of Metal Ceramic Parts
Stainless Steel 3D Printing
3D Printing of Composite Materials
On-Orbit Recycling and Reuse of 3D Printed Plastics
Printing Bricks with Artificial Lunar Dust
Printing Concrete with Urea and Artificial Lunar Dust
Printing Filters with Silicon Carbide
3D Printing of Biomimetic Materials
3D Printing of Bones and Skin
3D Printing Blood Vessels
Emergency Bioprinter
3D Printing Ensures Astronaut Life Systems
Status of Printing Materials
Heat Resistance of 3D Printed Metal
Laser 3D Printing X-ray Imaging
Surface Condition of 3D Printing
Technical Applications of Space 3D Printing
High-Temperature Resistant 3D Printing Technology
3D Printing of High-Temperature Resistant Nozzles
3D Printed Platinum Alloy Thruster Chamber
3D Printed Insulation Technology
Complex Structure 3D Printing Technology
3D Printed High Complexity Rocket Turbo-Pump
3D Printing of Complex Aircraft Icing Shapes
3D Printing of High-Precision Gas Identification Telescopes
3D Printing of a Complete Storable Thrust Chamber
High Utilization of 3D Printing Technology
3D Printing Aids in the Search for Black Holes
Building a Lunar Base with 3D Printing
3D Printing Helps Fight “COVID-19”
3D Printing of Astronaut Medical Tools
Integrated 3D Printing Technology
3D Printed Miniature Sensors
3D Printed Miniature Satellite Body
Lightweight 3D Printing Technology
Lightweight 3D Printed Components
3D Printed Metal Microwave Devices
Integrated 3D Printed Satellite Bracket
Future Development of 3D Printing in Space
3D Printing of Food in Space
Resupply of Spaceship Parts During Interstellar Travel
What to Do if an Astronaut Gets Seriously Ill During Interstellar Travel
3D Printing of Space Landers
Main Sources of Information
Bibliography