The Journal of Space Commerce

The Journal of Space Commerce

3D Printed Sensors for Satellites Developed at MIT

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Tom Patton
Aug 01, 2022
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MIT scientists have created the first completely 3D printed sensors for orbiting spacecraft. These digitally manufactured plasma sensors, also known as retarding potential analyzers (RPAs), are used by satellites to determine the chemical composition and ion energy distribution of the atmosphere.

“When you make this sensor in the cleanroom, you don’t hav…

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