The intention that NASA the need to build a lunar base is nothing new for dedicated research enthusiasts. In the long term, they intend to use a natural satellite as a launch vehicle for a trip to Mars; however, before this sci-fi movie idea becomes a reality, a lot of time and money will have to be invested. as part Artemis projectThe North American Space Agency has signed a six-year partnership involving a total of $57.2 million (~ R$300 million). ICONa startup specializing in television printers, the equipment that will be used to create a building system adapted to the lunar surface.

For a lunar base to be viable, astronauts will need infrastructure that will allow them to grow food, communicate with Earth, and more. All this can be improved by means of a technological printer. ICON manufactures a machine known as “Olympuswhich will 3D print large-scale structures such as blast screens, landing pads and roads.

Second Jason Ballard, ICON co-founder and CEO:

“To change the paradigm of space exploration by having astronauts stay where they are instead of always returning to Earth, we will need systems that are reliable, resilient and largely capable of using the resources of the Moon and other planetary bodies to build equipment ( …) The final realization of this contract will be the first construction of humanity in another world, and it will be a very special achievement.”

ICON built a 3D printer that produces components for building houses

The startup is not new to the segment. It is a construction equipment company capable of producing components for homes in North America as well as Mexico. Obviously, Olympus will be of a different level of complexity, because it will have to fuse an unprecedented 3D printing material, durable and pliable, made from lunar regolith. Another hurdle will be the need to adapt to the moon’s gravity.

Nicky Verheiser, The Director of Technology Advancement, NASA’s Office of Space Technology concluded:

“In order to explore other worlds, we need innovative new technologies adapted to these environments and our research needs (…) Joint development with our commercial partners will create the resources needed for future missions.”

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Source: NASA, Epoka Negosios.