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Astronauts Can Now Print Metal in Space and It’s a Game Changer for Future Missions

ZME Science
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The first metal part ever 3D-printed in space was produced aboard the International Space Station last year .

It recently returned to Earth for extensive testing and studying.

If its qualities are confirmed, it could usher in a new age for space exploration.

Metal printing requires extreme heat and a carefully controlled atmosphere to prevent oxidation.

If studies confirm their properties, researchers will move on to more complex objects as well as faster 3D printing. For now, it takes two to four weeks to print objects, with the printer operating four hours per day. This story originally appeared on ZME Science . Want to get smarter every day ? Subscribe to our newsletter and stay ahead with the latest science news..