Wearable devices help assemblers navigate complex work instructions.

ROCKFORD, IL—Ingersoll Machine Tools Inc. recently began assembling the world’s largest telescope mount at its factory here.

Several start-ups, such as Redwire Space, Space Forge Ltd. and Varda Space Industries, hope to ramp up activity over the next two years.

CHICAGO—Residents of Illinois and South Carolina recently named the “coolest thing” made in their respective states.

BREMEN, Germany—Airbus has been selected by the European Commission to study spacecraft manufacturing in space through the Horizon 2020 Programme.