LEAVING A MARK ON THE MOON

amace solutions, an emerging Indian manufacturer of metal 3D printing machines and part of the AceMicromatic Group which is one of the largest machine tool conglomerates in the country, is proud to have worked alongside the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in leaving an indelible mark on space exploration.

The first images from the Chandrayaan-3 mission, India’s ambitious lunar venture came in recently and filled our nation with an immense sense of pride. This was amplified by the visuals showing the Pragyaan rover leaving imprints of the national emblem and the ISRO logo as it clambered on along the moon’s surface. amace solutions is proud to have 3D printed this national emblem or ‘India’s Signature on the Moon’ that sits on the wheels of the Pragyaan Rover on its indigenously developed metal 3D printing machine, the STLR 400.

The Chandrayaan-3 mission is the third lunar exploration mission undertaken by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Following the remarkable successes of Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2, ISRO set its sights on Chandrayaan-3 with renewed determination. One of the distinctive aspects of this mission was ISRO’s aspiration to employ emerging technologies from within the country, thereby showcasing India’s ability to contribute cutting-edge solutions to space exploration.

From being a consumer to solutions provider

The integration of the national emblem on the rover’s wheels might seem like a mere symbolic gesture, but it encapsulates a significant milestone for India’s space exploration narrative. By harnessing amace solutions’ advanced 3D printing technology and many other advanced homegrown innovations, ISRO aimed to showcase the nation’s ability to leverage cutting-edge homegrown technologies in space missions. This initiative underscores India’s shift from being solely a consumer of technology to becoming a producer of innovative solutions.

For the team at amace to be associated with this historic mission in any capacity is a matter of great pride, and it is something that each and every member of the team amace holds very close to their hearts. The team at amace, under the guidance of the team from ISRO, meticulously crafted a replica of the national emblem that met the stringent requirements for space travel. The material used was carefully chosen for its durability, resistance to extreme lunar conditions, and adherence to stringent weight restrictions. The 3D printing process allowed for intricate detailing and precision, ensuring that every facet of the emblem was faithfully recreated.

Advantage 3D printing

This successful collaboration between ISRO and Amace Solutions exemplifies the profound impact of merging emerging technologies with space exploration. 3D printing, once considered a niche technology, has rapidly evolved to find applications in various sectors, including Aerospace. Its ability to manufacture complex geometries, reduce material wastage, and facilitate rapid prototyping makes it an ideal fit for crafting components meant for space missions.

As India’s signature now adorns the moon’s surface through the 3D-printed national emblem on the Pragyaan rover’s wheels, it stands as a testament to the nation’s scientific acumen and technological prowess. The Chandrayaan-3 mission not only extends India’s footprint on the lunar landscape but also signifies the country’s readiness to embrace emerging technologies to achieve its ambitions.

Poonam Pednekar Chief Copy Editor Magic Wand Media Inc poonam.pednekar@magicwandmedia.in

---

---