Not everyone can simply walk into a pizzeria and order a fresh, hot slice of pizza. But what if you could create one with the touch of a button? Imagine using today’s cutting-edge 3D printing technology to bring your favorite meal right to your kitchen. Last year, thanks to a $125,000 grant from NASA for developing a 3D printer designed for astronauts, Anjan Contractor once again made headlines with his innovative 3D pizza printer. In the video below, you can see how this machine, while not yet perfect in terms of texture, produces a visually appealing pizza that's fully cooked in just 70 seconds. Contractor is now working on improving the system to ensure that the "food raw material cartridges" can last up to 30 years, making it ideal for long-duration space missions.
The reason behind this long shelf life is tied to the growing ambitions of space exploration. As human missions to deep space become more frequent, the need for long-lasting, nutritious food sources becomes crucial. A mission to Mars, for example, could take several years, meaning astronauts must rely on food that remains safe and edible for extended periods. To achieve this, Contractor is researching methods to dehydrate food materials, remove excess moisture, and then process the remaining proteins, carbohydrates, and nutrients into a fine powder. This approach not only extends the shelf life but also makes food easier to store and transport in space environments.
Ningbo Safewell Plumbing Co., Ltd. , https://www.safewellbrass.com