Near-term self-replicating probes - A concept design

Self-replicating probes are spacecraft with the capacity to create copies of themselves. Self-replication would potentially allow for an exponential increase in number and thereby drastically improve efficiency space exploration. Despite this potential, integrated assessment self-replicating has not been presented since 1980s, it is still unclear how far they feasible. In paper, we propose a concept partially probe exploration based on current near-term technologies, focus small spacecraft. The purpose chart path towards self-replication benefits, rather than attempting full self-replication. For reason, components such as microchips other microelectronic brought initial replicated. We estimate that be capable replicating 70% its mass. To further percentage, identify technology gaps which may usefully addressed. conclude small-scale, feasible near-term. Their benefits become significant missions requiring order dozen probes.