Additive Manufacturing, known colloquially as 3D Printing, is now an established method of manufacturing, is real and not a gimmick. We are currently in a new space race, which is being led by commercial tech start-ups. These companies are small, nimble-acting and forward-thinking, refuse to do things the old way and embrace the new. For these companies and more, Additive Manufacturing is the key to unlocking access to space. As we seek to push the boundaries of human space flight, the challenge for space launch providers and the associated supply chain, is to provide greater access to space by improving products, deploying new materials, simplifying designs, decreasing part count, reducing errors and driving smarter and leaner operations. Additive Manufacturing is also an enabling technology for automation, machine learning and AI. From combustion devices for rocket engine propulsion to wire arc additive manufacturing of domes, barrels and fuel tanks, the technology is providing real solutions to space exploration problems. 3D Printing in microgravity and off-planet is another aspect of Additive Manufacturing which is making science fiction become science fact. As we recommence exploring our solar system, Additive Manufacturing is the key to unlocking access to space.

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