3-D printer tested in space

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The first 3-D printer in space has popped out its first creation.

The 3-D printer delivered to the International Space Station two months ago made a sample replacement part for itself this week. It churned out a new faceplate for the print head casing.

Space station commander Butch Wilmore removed the small plastic creation from the printer Tuesday, a day after its manufacture.

Some of the plastic piece stuck to the print tray, NASA spokesman Dan Huot said. He noted it’s part of the learning process and will be further investigated.

About 20 objects will be printed in the next few weeks, all for return to Earth for analysis, NASA said. The space agency hopes to one day use 3-D printing to make parts for broken equipment in space – “an on-demand machine shop,” according to project manager Niki Werkheiser.

Made in Space, the Northern California company that supplied the space station’s 3-D printer, called it “a transformative moment.” The newly created, rectangular faceplate includes the Made in Space name, as well as NASA’s.