3-dimensional "printing" pioneer 3D Systems (DDD -1.15%) firmed up its ties with would-be asteroid ore miner Planetary Resources Wednesday.

Last month, the companies announced an alliance whereby Planetary Resources would use 3D's additive manufacturing machines to produce parts for its planned fleet of ARKYD spacecraft. Today, 3D took another step toward outer space when it announced it has added Planetary Resources co-founder Dr. Peter H. Diamandis to its board of directors.

In addition to co-founding Planetary Resources, Diamandis is a founder of hypertech learning institution Singularity University, as well as chairman and CEO of the X PRIZE Foundation and of space tourism company Space Adventures.

Welcoming him aboard the 3D Board, Chairman Walter Loewenbaum announced: "We are very pleased to have a person of Peter's caliber join our Board of Directors. Peter brings a unique blend of experience that we expect to enhance the range of skills and expertise within our Board of Directors."