A self-replicating 3D printer might be on the horizon, & with it, the exciting potential of Von Neumann probes!
Theory of Self-Reproducing Automata, by John Von Neumann, 1966 - http://www.cs.unm.edu/~mfricke/CS523_2017spring/Readings/Theory_of_Self_Reproducing_Automata.pdf
:Advanced Automation for Space Missions, edited by Robert A. Freitas, Jr. & William P. Gilbreath, 1980 - https://ntrs.nasa.gov/archive/nasa/casi.ntrs.nasa.gov/19830007077.pdf
| Self-Replicating Robots and Galactic Domination | Space Time | PBS Digital Studios - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4H55wybU3rI |
Additive Construction using Basalt Regolith Fines (Mueller et al, 2015) - https://ntrs.nasa.gov/archive/nasa/casi.ntrs.nasa.gov/20150000305.pdf
Michio Kaku: The von Neumann Probe (A Nano Ship to the Stars) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BN-FU8VPoOc
Desktop 3D printer presages the future of multi-layer circuit board design, by Lucas Mearian - https://www.computerworld.com/article/3195839/3d-printing/desktop-3d-printer-presages-the-future-of-multi-layer-circuit-board-design.html