Techno World: 3D Printing May Make Moon Bases a Reality

We may soon be using 3D printing to build lunar bases, according to kurzweilai.net and the European Space Agency (ESA).
Well known architects Foster and Partners got together with the ESA to explore the idea of building bases on the moon using the new technology of 3D printing.
The process of 3D printing takes a digital image and converts it into a real three dimensional object that people can use.
Foster and Partners designed a pressurized dome shaped base that would house astronauts. This base could also protect astronauts from micrometeoroids and space radiation.
"As a practice, we are used to designing for extreme climates on Earth and exploiting the environmental benefits of using local, sustainable materials," said Xavier De Kestelier of Foster and Partners Specialist Modeling Group. "Our lunar habitation follows similar logic."
3D printing would be a cost effective way of building bases on the moon, instead of traveling back and forth from Earth and the moon with supplies to create these bases.
The ESA will be able to set up these printers on the moon and print these buildings on the moon, using 3D printing technology and lunar soil.
"3D printing offers a potential means of facilitating lunar settlement with reduced logistics from Earth," said Scott Hovland of ESA's human spaceflight team.
The current Monolite 3D printers build at a rate of about two meters per hour. The next generation printers will build at a rate of about 3.5 meters per hour.
It is not yet known when the project will begin, but the ESA says once the printers are assembled on the moon it will take about a week to complete a building.