179. 3D Printed Mini Thrusters For Space Travel

The Next Byte Podcast · 18 Jun 2024 · 20m

What this episode covers

Hosts Daniel and Forbode discuss MIT researchers' development of miniaturized electric space thrusters using field electron emitters (FEEs) manufactured by the startup Volterra. They explain how Volterra's Nova desktop 3D printer, combined with a custom carbon nanotube ink formulation, overcomes the high cost and long lead times of traditional cleanroom manufacturing. The team achieved 35% lower startup voltage and 65% higher current density than previous 3D-printed counterparts, enabling rapid 30-second production of high-performance components for CubeSats and scientific instruments.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies: Mouser Electronics, Volterra, MIT
Products: Volterra Nova
Materials: carbon nanotubes, ethyl cellulose

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179. 3D Printed Mini Thrusters For Space Travel

What this episode covers

Most relevant to

Topics

Mentioned

Related episodes from other shows

Ep097: We ♥ MicroMice, the Case of the Missing Drones, and 3D Prints Tested for Rocketry and Food Prep

Ep 272: Desktop EDM, Silence of the Leaves, and the Tyranny of the Rocket Equation

Ep 169: 3D Print Vase Mode: Engage, Measuring Nanovolts through Mega DIY, and The Softest Pants are Software Pants

Ep 255: Balloon on the Moon, Nanotech Goblets, and USB All the Way

Ep 217: The Unintentional Space and 3D Printing Episode