The Challenges of 3D Printing in Outer Space to Intellectual Property Regime

The technology of 3D printing is developing rapidly and has become more and more mature. Thanks to the advantages of 3D printing, such as simple operation and cost saving, the USA and European countries are planning to use this technology in space activities, and have already begun to perform experimental tests and to develop relative technologies. However, the emergence of 3D printing has significantly affected the protection of patents and copyright. Concerning copyright, the extent of “copying” and “fair use” should be re-determined. Besides, 3D printing also hinders the identification of patent infringement. The special legal status of the outer space has made the problem of protecting IP rights while using 3D printing in outer space even more complex. From the perspective of promoting the development of space activities, in order to deal with the new challenges, the registration regime for space objects needs improvement, the application scope of patent law as well as copyright law ought to be extended, and special restrictions on patent rights and copyright should be accorded under specific circumstances.