STARGATE project to 3D print metallic space propulsion components on the ISS

by Laura Griffiths 16 July 2025 13:56 A project from the European Space Agency (ESA), Airbus Defence and Space, and German Aerospace Center (DLR) is attempting a 3D printing first for space. The STARGATE project aims to additively manufacture functional metal space propulsion components on board the International Space Station. The first part, a 1-Newton thruster developed by DLR, will be printed and returned to Earth for hot-fire testing, in what DLR has described as ‘a game-changer for additive manufacturing in space, unlocking new frontiers for exploration.’ If successful, it will be the first fully functional spacecraft component, built in space and used directly in orbit.  According to a post on LinkedIn, STARGATE, which officially launched at the 4th Workshop for Advanced Manufacturing at ESA ESTEC on July 8th, will study how microgravity influences the printing process and material properties. Juri Munk, Researcher at DLR recently shared how the centre is researching metal AM for deployment in aircraft engines and rocket propulsion systems, and teased this latest development with the ESA. Munk said, “Our goal is to manufacture a small metallic thruster suitable for in-space operation, directly in orbit. We will return the thruster back to Earth and subject it to
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