Stratasys and Aegis Aerospace test 3D-printed materials on the moon

In a new project, Stratasys Ltd, a leader in polymer 3D printing solutions, and Aegis Aerospace have announced a partnership to test the performance of 3D printed materials on the lunar surface. These experiments are part of Aegis Aerospace’s first Space Science and Technology Evaluation Mission (SSTEF-1), developed under NASA’s Tipping Point program to provide research and development services on the lunar surface.

The SSTEF-1 project aims to develop space infrastructure technologies and capabilities for the Moon and near-Earth space. As part of this mission, Stratasys will provide 3D-printed samples that will be transported to the moon by an unmanned lander in a carrier structure also 3D-printed by Stratasys.

The experiments will focus on three materials in two different series of experiments led by Northrop Grumman. The first experiment examines the performance of a sample piece made from Stratasys’ Antero 800NA FDM filament with tungsten infill. This high-performance, PEKK-based thermoplastic has excellent mechanical properties, chemical resistance and low outgassing properties. Tungsten has been added to provide protection against harmful radiation such as gamma or X-rays.

Another passive experiment will evaluate the performance of 3D printed material in space. It includes Antero 840CN03 FDM filament, used for its ESD properties for use in electronics, and a new ESD photopolymer, manufactured by Stratasys partner Henkel, designed for use in Stratasys’ Origin One 3D printers and suitable for high-temperature environments. These samples are exposed to lunar dust, low pressure that can lead to outgassing, and the rapid temperature fluctuations that result from the near-absence of atmosphere on the moon.

“Additive manufacturing is an important technology for space missions where every ounce of weight matters and high performance is essential,” said Chief Industrial Business Officer Rich Garrity. “This set of experiments will help us understand how to fully leverage 3D printing to keep people and equipment safe as we travel to the moon and beyond.”