AddUp, a provider of metal additive manufacturing (AM) solutions, has partnered with Airbus Defence and Space to reportedly create and deliver the first metal 3D printer to the European Space Agency (ESA).

The partnership aims to develop a 3D metal printer capable of safely functioning in microgravity conditions aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The technology will provide the potential to fabricate spare parts directly in space, eliminating the need for shipment from Earth. 

The company successfully launched the first Metal 3D Printer toward the ISS via NASA’s Mission NG-20. The metal 3D printer will be installed in the ISS on board the Columbus European Science Module, with the first printing operations expected to start by late February or early March 2024.