Why are space agencies and the nations that run them so interested in Moon habitats? A renewable source of Helium-3 could lead to moon mining. Interlune is already patenting the technology.

Additive manufacturing and 3D printing patents are being filed for everything from human urine-bound bricks to radiation shielding for construction on the moon.

 A look at recent patent filings, including one for a 3D printing technology for construction in space by ICON, offers a glimpse into the future.