NASA successfully tested a 3D-printed antenna, demonstrating the potential of additive manufacturing technologies to reduce costs and accelerate the development of communication solutions for its scientific and exploration missions.
A groundbreaking antenna designed in record time
In fall 2024, NASA developed and tested a 3D-printed antenna, marking a significant advancement in the use of additive manufacturing. The antenna was designed by the Near Space Network team using a conductive ceramic-filled polymer. With a specialized printer provided by Fortify, the manufacturing process—from digital design to final printing—was completed in just a few hours. Mounted on a weather balloon, this magneto-electric dipole antenna was tested in collaboration with NASA’s satellite relay network.
Successful tests paving the way for promising applications
After being printed, the antenna underwent rigorous testing in the anechoic chamber at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, simulating space conditions, and further field testing before its launch from Texas. At an altitude of 30 kilometers, the antenna demonstrated its robustness and reliable communication capabilities by transmitting data effectively. This success paves the way for rapid, custom, and cost-efficient communication systems for NASA’s future space missions.
Picture by zirconicusso on Freepik.
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