This special issue focuses on the cutting-edge intersection of additive manufacturing and space-oriented structural design, featuring five key research directions. It explores multifunctional continuous fiber-reinforced composite structures, thermo-mechanical coupling failure mechanisms in 3D-printed PEEK-based composites for space components, deformation control and performance validation of mechanical metamaterials under microgravity, on-orbit additive manufacturing and topology optimization of flexible structures, and metallic additive manufacturing technologies for aerospace applications. Collectively, these contributions address the unique challenges of space environments—including extreme thermal loads, microgravity, and resource constraints—while advancing design methodologies, material characterization, process optimization, and structural verification.

The issue aims to bridge fundamental research with engineering practice, providing novel insights into lightweight, resilient, and adaptive space systems enabled by next-generation additive manufacturing.