One small PRINT for man: Nasa astronauts create first 3D-printed object in space - they may one day use the technology to make everything they need

In the future astronauts on missions to distant worlds like Mars will print some of the tools they need and, maybe one day, even their food. The demonstration is an important step to having 'replicators' on future missions The device was created by California-based company Made in Space, who were contracted by Nasa to design it for the ISS. Called the 3D Printing in Zero-G Technology Demonstration, it aims to show the 'additive manufacturing' technique can make 3D printed parts and tools in space. The printer used plastic to form the first of a series of calibration coupons The device was created by California-based company Made in Space, who were contracted by Nasa to design it for the ISS. According to the company, the presence of a 3D printer on the ISS will allow hardware designs to be made on Earth and then digitally beamed to the space station.