Auxilium Biotechnologies tests 3D printing on the ISS

Auxilium Biotechnologies has successfully launched its AMP-1 3D bioprinting system on board the International Space Station (ISS). This platform enables the production of implantable medical devices under microgravity conditions and offers specific advantages over earthbound production methods.

The unique environment of the ISS favors uniform material distribution and increased structural precision, which are important for complex biomedical implants. On Earth, comparable structures would be difficult to realize due to gravity. The AMP-1 Bioprinter uses pre-installed cartridges of biological material to produce implants that are further processed upon return to Earth. The short operating time per printing process significantly reduces the astronauts’ workload, minimizing the costs of operating in space.

“The deployment of our bioprinter on the ISS is a landmark achievement for space biomanufacturing and Auxilium,” said Jacob Koffler PhD MBA, CEO of Auxilium. “AMP-1 is the most advanced 3D-printing platform ever sent to space, enabling us to develop regenerative medicine treatments that can transform patient care. This facility not only demonstrates the feasibility of mass 3D-printing production in space but also highlights the economic potential of space-based manufacturing. Bioprinting in microgravity will drive innovation benefiting life on Earth, aboard commercial space stations in Low Earth Orbit, and in future space exploration, including upcoming Moon missions.”

Initial applications are focused on implants to repair peripheral nerves, with further steps towards clinical trials and commercialization. In the long term, the method could optimize medical care for astronautical missions.

“This represents a leap in technological innovation,” said Isac Lazarovits, Auxilium’s Director of Engineering. “The installation of the printer on the ISS required only two minutes of astronaut time before it was fully operational — an impressive milestone in itself. For the first time, we have achieved a straightforward integration solution for a manufacturing facility in space. With AMP-1 now operational, we are advancing our biomanufacturing research and the development of regenerative medical devices at an unprecedented pace. We extend our gratitude to our partners at Space Tango and Invetech, who have worked closely with us to make this project a reality.”

Auxilium Biotechnologies is collaborating with Space Tango and Invetech to realize the project. The company benefits from NASA funding under the InSpace Production Applications (InSpa) program, which supports innovative manufacturing technologies in space. With these advances, 3D printing could establish itself as a key technology for future missions to the moon and Mars.