To support a potential, future lunar base, researchers at the European Space Agency (ESA) have 3D-printed and baked fake moon dust into screws, gears, and even a coin.

The technology can already make things from a huge palette of materials including metals, ceramics and plastics, some of which can be used to make space-grade equipment. 3D priting with moondust.

What if you could use 3D-printing technology to build a fully habitable base on the moon? The European Space Agency is trying to make that a reality.

Under this contract, ICON will take its 3D printing technology all the way to a demonstration on the lunar surface in 2026 (assuming the Artemis mission timeline stays on track).

European Space Agency scientists are exploring ways to 3D print objects using artificial lunar soil. And the possibilities could be endless.

Imagine landing on the moon or Mars, putting rocks through a 3-D printer and making something useful – like a needed wrench or replacement part. “It sounds like science fiction, but now it’s ...