IAC-17.B6.2.12: Advantages of 3D printing technology to operations in future human exploration of mars
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Copyright (2017) by International Astronautical Federation All rights reserved. Geological field work is an important goal that has to be executed during a human mission to Mars. To make sure that all experiments during a mission to Mars can be conducted properly, it is crucial that tools can be quickly repaired or replaced, without reliance on Earth, and 3D printing can provide that capability. Additionally, 3D printing has the potential to produce tools on an as-needed basis for newly identified needs. We tested the operational workflow of using 3D printing in the Poland Mars Analog Simulation 2017 [1]. Previous analog studies identified the need for an Earth independent approach for Mars operations, especially because of the time delay in Earth-Mars communications [6]. Additionally, flexibility in human Mars operations has been identified as an important capability. We test the hypotheses that a 3D printer can assist operations in a) being more flexible and b) more independent of Earth. These will be assessed by observing how quickly the operational procedures can be executed, how efficiently the analog astronauts can use the technology and how the use of 3D printers can provide operational adaptability to print tools on demand and improve mission robustness. Preliminary findings from the experimental results identified the utility of a 3D printer to support geological field work, and to adapt to unplanned issues, although to maximise the benefit, the technology needs to be made more robust, and operational procedures need to be adapted to suit the use of a 3D printer. Evidence from the experiments suggested some benefit for 3D printers enabling greater independence of Earth, but with a reliance on Earth-based expertise. Further analysis and investigations are being pursued to fully assess the hypotheses.
