NASA is planning to bring 3D printers into space for the astronauts living at the International Space Station. This would allow them to print broken or lost parts in space rather than having to wait 6 months or more to have them brought up by another space ship. This not only could help extend the life of certain parts or tools but could also decrease costs as once a working 3D printer is onboard the ISS certain parts will no long need to be brought up with an expensive trip by space shuttle.