Integrated modeling and optimization of lunar In-Situ Resource Utilization systems

Exploring space manufacturing: designing a lunar factory for space-bound products in the new space economy

“…For instance, the production of fiber optics in microgravity leads to fewer defects than those produced on Earth, highlighting the unique advantage of space manufacturing and its impact on the state-of-the-art in materials science. Manufacturing for space-use can also bypass the considerable costs and risks associated with transporting goods from Earth, as demonstrated by the significant investments in developing the capability for in-space production of spare parts and repair equipment (S. S. Schreiner, 2015). This approach is anticipated to be a linchpin for future long-duration missions, enabling on-the-spot manufacturing which is a leap forward in space mission autonomy.…”