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NASA’s latest funding of space technology projects includes plenty of 3D printing innovation proposals. Out of a total of 289 US small businesses and 47 research institutions to receive initial funding from the agency’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program in 2021, 11% will leverage additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. The selections will empower NASA’s missions, including engineering sciences, off-Earth manufacturing, and aeronautics. With projects ranging from interplanetary additive construction to 3D printing thermal protection for space vehicles, AM technology is set to play a key role in enabling the forthcoming era of space exploration and commercialization.

Jim Reuter, Associate Administrator for the agency’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) responsible for NASA’s SBIR and STTR program, said small businesses are facing unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, NASA has accelerated the release of the 2021 program schedule by two months, getting funds into the hands of small businesses sooner. “We hope the expedited funding helps provide a near-term boost for future success,” he concluded.

NASA SBIR/STTR Program. Image courtesy of NASA.

As in previous years, NASA is awarding over $45 million. Each company

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