NASA develops 3D-printed metal fabrics for use in space

NASA scientists have developed 3D-printed metal fabrics that could be used for astronaut spacesuits or as shields and insulation for spacecraft.The foldable fabric – which can change shape quickly -could be useful for large antennas and other deployable devices as well. Another potential use might be for an icy moon like Jupiter’s Europa, where these fabrics could insulate the spacecraft, researchers said.At the same time, this flexible material could fold over uneven terrain, creating “feet” that would not melt the ice under them.