| Abstract Scope |
Unprecedented increases in access to space, the lowering of launch costs, and the continued increase in the importance of spaceflight in daily life have driven strong growth in demand for in-space manufacturing capabilities that extend well beyond additive manufacturing. These capabilities will further anchor the future human presence in low-Earth orbit (LEO) and enable sustainable exploration. Our research efforts proceed through two channels: 1) innovative research and advanced manufacturing techniques, and 2) the use of robotics in space. By utilizing the pure vacuum of space, our work in cold welding will enable a new, low-power method of fabricating and joining materials in space, reducing reliance on Earth-sourced fabrication. This presentation discusses our advancements on a LEO robotic cold welding system, shares preliminary data, and envisions the enablement of a hybrid autonomous robot that will allow us to accomplish common manufacturing tasks in space, akin to a metal artisan on Earth. |