US-based Made In Space (MIS) has signed a deal with Axiom Space to jointly produce products in space for commercial customers.

As part of the deal, both companies will share their capabilities to manufacture solutions in space.

MIS is also currently developing a system to produce high-value optical fibres in space, planned to be used aboard Axiom's station.

“Made In Space is an exemplary company to collaborate with to meet the demand for in-space manufacturing."

Once completed, the system is expected to help manufacturers and researchers, as well as servicing and expanding satellites and station capabilities.

MIS CEO Andrew Rush said: "Axiom and Made In Space are adding to the space ecosystem, serving a growing market and enabling innovative approaches from processes learned on the International Space Station.

“This partnership allows us to continue to evolve and develop new products and allow our customers to invest in space manufacturing knowing that there will be an ongoing human presence on orbit.

"They are the ideal partner for manufacturing new technologies in space and leveraging our new capabilities."

MIS has already produced 3D-printed products in space, following the launch of commercial polymer and metal 3D printers to the International Space Station (ISS).

Axiom Space president and CEO Michael Suffredini said: "This partnership marks an important next step in humanity's reach into space.

"In-space manufacturing provides a unique class of products beneficial to the communications, materials and biomedical industries on Earth.

“Made In Space is an exemplary company to collaborate with to meet the demand for in-space manufacturing, and we are thrilled to build a partnership with the individuals who have proven their abilities in zero-g flights and on ISS."

The company was involved in developing the world's first privately owned commercial space station.