The Replicator mission, a collaboration between Warsaw, Poland, and Berlin, Germany-based startup Orbital Matter, aims to show how 3D printing can be used in orbit, potentially enabling the creation of new space structures with fewer resources.

Orbital Matter aims to become the first construction company in space, focusing on manufacturing large elements of space infrastructure directly in orbit, on the Moon, and Mars. Their method of 3D printing works without heat, making it faster to build structures in a vacuum.

3D printing was first tested in space on the International Space Station in 2014, proving useful for on-demand manufacturing of tools and spare parts. However, no 3D printing technology has been shown to work in the harsher conditions outside the Space Station in open space.

Manufacturing directly in space means that large structures could be built with fewer materials, as they don't need to withstand launch conditions. This could lead to space-based solar power plants, communication antennas, larger telescopes, and space stations.

Orbital Matter has demonstrated their 3D printing technology in a vacuum on Earth. With Ariane 6's first launch, they will perform their first in-space demonstration by printing a 50 cm-long beam from a CubeSat.

"Thanks to the ESA PUSH opportunity, we're demonstrating our 3D printer in orbit a remarkable 12 months ahead of schedule," says Jakub Stojek, CEO of Orbital Matter. "This is a great example of how European technological independence can be built in space, by fostering rapid prototyping for startups across Europe."

Robert Ihnatisin, Chief Technology Officer at Orbital Matter adds: "Ariane 6 will act as a catalyst for the renewed launch capabilities of Europe, and our experiment during its inaugural flight could help Europe become a leading player in in-space manufacturing, as we demonstrate it is indeed possible to 3D print in exposed space".

Orbital Matter's mission is supported by Paris-based launch provider RIDE! space, who organized a contest under ESA's PUSH tender. RIDE! offers a digital platform for end-to-end launch services and support with launch integration and promotion.

"We're delighted to be part of European space history with our presence on Ariane 6 maiden launch," explains Valentin Benoit, RIDE! CEO. "The whole team is working hand-to-hand with Orbital Matter to finalise the launch campaign of this ambitious and disruptive 3D printing in space mission. I would like to thank Arianespace, ESA's Space Transportation and CIC teams for their support during launch preparations."

Ariane 6 is designed for maximum versatility, capable of putting any satellite or payload into any orbital path with its new restartable Vinci engine.

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