How can you use space resources to make space exploration sustainable?

1 In-situ resource utilization

One of the key concepts in sustainable space exploration is in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), which means using the resources available at the destination to produce useful products and services. For example, ISRU can enable the extraction of water, oxygen, hydrogen, metals, and other materials from the lunar or Martian soil, or from asteroids, to create propellants, life support systems, habitats, tools, and spare parts. ISRU can reduce the dependence on Earth-based supplies, lower the launch mass and cost, extend the mission duration and capabilities, and enable the creation of self-sustaining colonies.

2 Lunar mining and manufacturing

The moon is a rich source of space resources, especially water ice, which can be found in the permanently shadowed regions of the lunar poles. Water ice can be converted into oxygen and hydrogen, which can be used for rocket fuel, breathing air, electricity, and water. The moon also has abundant minerals, such as iron, titanium, aluminum, and silicon, which can be used for building materials and solar panels. Lunar mining and manufacturing can be done by robotic or human-operated systems, such as rovers, landers, drills, excavators, smelters, 3D printers, and modular factories. Lunar mining and manufacturing can support lunar exploration and settlement, as well as provide fuel and materials for missions to other destinations.

3 Asteroid mining and processing

Asteroids are small rocky bodies that orbit the sun, and some of them cross the Earth's orbit. Asteroids are also rich in space resources, such as water, metals, organic compounds, and rare earth elements. Asteroid mining and processing can be done by robotic or human-operated systems, such as spacecraft, probes, harpoons, nets, grapples, crushers, extractors, and refineries. Asteroid mining and processing can provide valuable commodities for Earth's markets, as well as fuel and materials for deep space exploration and colonization.

4 Martian exploration and settlement

Mars is the most Earth-like planet in the solar system, and a prime target for human exploration and settlement. Mars has a thin atmosphere, a day-night cycle, seasons, volcanoes, canyons, rivers, lakes, and polar caps. Mars also has some space resources that can be used for ISRU, such as water ice, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and perchlorates. Martian exploration and settlement can be done by robotic or human-operated systems, such as orbiters, landers, rovers, helicopters, rockets, habitats, greenhouses, and laboratories. Martian exploration and settlement can advance scientific knowledge, test human endurance, and prepare for future interplanetary journeys.

5 Space economy and governance

Space resources have the potential to create a new space economy and governance, where different actors, such as governments, companies, organizations, and individuals, can participate in the exploration, exploitation, and exchange of space products and services. Space economy and governance can be based on existing or new legal frameworks, agreements, policies, and regulations, that can balance the interests, rights, and responsibilities of the stakeholders, as well as ensure the ethical, environmental, and social aspects of space activities. Space economy and governance can foster innovation, collaboration, and diversity, as well as address the challenges and opportunities of sustainable space exploration.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?