Lecture

Additive Manufacturing: Dr. Tommaso Ghidini

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Description

This lecture, presented by Dr. Tommaso Ghidini from the European Space Agency, delves into the world of additive manufacturing, focusing on its applications on Earth, in orbit, and on other planets. The lecture covers the challenges and opportunities of using 3D printing technologies for space hardware, including propulsion systems, structures, electrical components, optics, and demisability. Dr. Ghidini also discusses the European Space Agency's efforts in standardizing additive manufacturing processes and materials for space applications, as well as the future prospects of bioprinting for regenerative medicine in space.

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Related concepts (32)

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Laser propulsion is a form of beam-powered propulsion where the energy source is a remote (usually ground-based) laser system and separate from the reaction mass. This form of propulsion differs from a conventional chemical rocket where both energy and reaction mass come from the solid or liquid propellants carried on board the vehicle. The basic concepts underlying a photon-propelled "sail" propulsion system were developed by Eugene Sanger and the Hungarian physicist György Marx.

Propulsion

Propulsion is the generation of force by any combination of pushing or pulling to modify the translational motion of an object, which is typically a rigid body (or an articulated rigid body) but may also concern a fluid. The term is derived from two Latin words: pro, meaning before or forward; and pellere, meaning to drive. A propulsion system consists of a source of mechanical power, and a propulsor (means of converting this power into propulsive force).

Spacecraft propulsion

Spacecraft propulsion is any method used to accelerate spacecraft and artificial satellites. In-space propulsion exclusively deals with propulsion systems used in the vacuum of space and should not be confused with space launch or atmospheric entry. Several methods of pragmatic spacecraft propulsion have been developed, each having its own drawbacks and advantages. Most satellites have simple reliable chemical thrusters (often monopropellant rockets) or resistojet rockets for orbital station-keeping and some use momentum wheels for attitude control.

Spacecraft electric propulsion

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Beam-powered propulsion

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