Skolkovo residents seek to print satellites directly in space

A 3D printer for use in space is the end goal of a joint project between two Russian companies – Sputnix and Anisoprint – and Moscow Polytechnic University.

The device will be able to print construction elements of microsatellites using composite materials while in orbit, its creators say. The project combines the experience of Anisoprint in the 3D printing of parts from composite materials with that of Sputnix in making small spacecraft and onboard systems for them.

Sputnix, a resident of Skolkovo’s space technologies and communications cluster, in 2014 launched the first private Russian remote sensing microsatellite, using a Dnepr rocket launcher. The company was founded in 2011.

Anisoprint, a resident of Skolkovo’s nuclear technologies cluster, was founded in 2015 by staff of the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech). It provides technology for the 3D printing of continuous fibre reinforced composites.