The big picture: The NOM4D program is part of a broader trend in space technology development that anticipates significant advancements by 2030. These include frequent orbital launches, regular lunar missions, on-orbit refueling for robotic spacecraft, and autonomous robots capable of constructing structures in space. The latest breakthroughs from NOM4D will further expand the possibilities for this envisioned future. DARPA has announced a major shift in the final phase of its NOM4D program, transitioning from laboratory testing to small-scale orbital demonstrations. This move aims to evaluate novel materials and assembly techniques in space, marking a critical step toward the development of large-scale orbital structures.Launched in 2022, the NOM4D program seeks to overcome a fundamental challenge in space construction: the size and weight constraints of rocket cargo fairings. Instead of relying on pre-folded or compacted structures, DARPA's innovative approach involves stowing lightweight raw materials in a rocket fairing for in-orbit assembly. This could enable the construction of far larger and more mass-efficient structures than currently feasible.Encouraged by significant progress from research teams during the program's first two phases, DARPA has now greenlit in-space testing a key milestone toward making orbital manufacturing a reality.Caltech has partnered with Momentus to demonstrate its autonomous robotic assembly technology aboard the Momentus Vigoride Orbital Services Vehicle. Scheduled for launch in February 2026 on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, this free-flying experiment will construct a 1.4-meter-diameter circular truss in space. Made of lightweight composite fiber longerons, the structure will simulate the architecture of an antenna aperture a critical step toward building large-scale space infrastructure.Meanwhile, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has developed a high-precision in-space composite-forming process. In partnership with Voyager Space, UIUC will demonstrate this technology on the International Space Station in April 2026. The experiment will utilize a unique "frontal polymerization" method, which hardens carbon fiber structures without requiring large autoclaves a breakthrough that could enable the manufacturing of massive space structures. // Related StoriesAlthough not involved in the orbital demonstrations, the University of Florida is contributing to the program through research on laser sheet metal bending techniques. In collaboration with NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, this work could provide critical manufacturing capabilities for future space-based construction.The success of these demonstrations could have far-reaching implications for both commercial space ventures and national security interests. According to Andrew Detor, DARPA NOM4D program manager, these advancements could scale up to enable the construction of 100-meter-diameter RF antennas, enhancing situational awareness in cislunar space.Beyond defense applications, the NOM4D program could help establish an in-space manufacturing ecosystem, paving the way for orbital refueling stations, space-based solar farms, and other commercial and national security infrastructures.