menu

SpaceIL using 3D printing to win $30M prize by landing on Moon

Published on October 25, 2017 by Jamie D.

In what promises to be a momentous achievement, an Israeli startup is attempting to use 3D printing to land on the Moon. The startup, SpaceIL, plan to land a vehicle on the moon, including many 3D printing parts.

Why?

Google have a $30M prize for anybody who can land a spacecraft on the Moon by March 2018. This is a significant amount of money, and 5 teams including SpaceIL are trying to be first. SpaceIL incorporated 3D printing by using it to create the legs of its lander. This is because one of their suppliers, RUAG Space, insisted despite SpaceIL’s initial scepticism according to RUAG executive Franck Mouriaux.

Mouriaux expanded further, stating “We need to convince people that this technology is real.” This rings true for many fans of the tech. Many do not consider 3D printing to offer the same benefits of traditional manufacturing as the process is still new. This reluctance to try it is therefore hurting its adoption. However, it is not all bad. The 3D printing market is expected to increase fourfold to $26bn by 2023 and has barely dented the manufacturing market.

The launch is part of Google’s $30M “New Space Race” prize.

How?

3D printing offers extra precise detailing due to its method of printing tiny layers of polymers or metals to create parts. This enables 3D printers to create incredibly detailed pieces that previously couldn’t be made. Due to this, there are opportunities to create lighter designs suitable for tasks such as space travel. 3D printing has already seen much use in NASA’s plans and space travel in addition to other sectors. In manufacturing however, 3D printing is mostly relegated to the prototype market in manufacturing.

We will have to see if SpaceIL wins Google’s “New Space Race”. If they do, 3D printing will see another success. This is another example of 3D printing’s ability to improve projects. 3D printing will then be seen as a better alternative to normal manufacturing. Perhaps then, we will see wider adoption.

Let us know what you think in a comment below or on our Facebook and Twitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter, all the latest news in 3D printing delivered to your inbox!

Share Your Thoughts

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

de_DEen_USes_ESfr_FRit_IT
Stay Updated
Every wednesday, receive a recap of the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox.