NASA Developed Material From Space Dust

Researchers created a biodegradable plastic composite designed for construction on the Moon and Mars.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Materials Science

Isometric editorial illustration of a grey, speckled 3D-printed structural bracket on a white background, representing space-age materials science. — NASA researchers have developed a biodegradable composite material by mixing plastic with simulated lunar and Martian dust to aid in-space manufacturing. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should NASA prioritize developing on-site manufacturing technologies to reduce long-term space mission costs?

NASA Glenn Research Center has developed a new material made from biodegradable plastic mixed with simulated lunar and Martian dust. The innovation aims to enable on-site manufacturing during deep-space missions to reduce launch weight and costs.

Why it matters

This material allows astronauts to manufacture essential equipment like brackets and tools using local resources. By repurposing crew waste or carbon dioxide for plastic production, missions can significantly decrease their dependence on Earth-based supplies.

The material consists of bacterial-produced biodegradable plastic reinforced with planetary soil simulants. It is currently undergoing structural testing within the Lunar Environment Structural Test Rig.

The players

NASA Glenn Research Center

Located in Cleveland, this facility serves as one of the primary research and development centers for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

The details

The team at NASA Glenn Research Center developed a process where bacteria consume crew waste or carbon dioxide to produce plastic, which is then combined with planetary dust to enhance structural strength. This versatile composite is intended for creating durable items such as wrenches, furniture, and structural components.

The research is currently funded through the 2026 Center Innovation Fund.
Samples are scheduled for upcoming testing aboard the MISSE-23 mission.

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The Big Picture

This development represents a departure from relying solely on Earth-manufactured hardware by validating the MISSE-23 mission testing protocols for on-site material synthesis. It effectively shifts the paradigm of mission logistics toward self-sustaining habitat construction.

Future breakthroughs in biodegradable plastics could lead to the development of stronger, eco-friendly building materials for use in extreme environments on Earth. This technology potentially lowers the cost of space logistics, making long-term lunar and Martian habitation more feasible.

The takeaway

Advancements in utilizing local planetary materials are essential for supporting the long-term feasibility of human space colonies. These composites demonstrate that repurposing waste into functional tools is a critical step for future space exploration.