Expanding Mineral Resources: Technical Considerations for Extraterrestrial Mining

It is well-understood that natural resources are scarce and that the world’s population is predicted to climb exponentially. As the global population continues to grow, demand for consumer goods including food, hygiene, and technology will increase accordingly. Part of this problem is that mineral resources are becoming increasingly difficult to find and extract profitably. The necessity to consider the feasibility of resource extraction in new locations is paramount to our continued prosperity. Although mining in outer space is not considered a conventional solution to the growing mineral shortage, extraterrestrial environments are becoming particularly attractive due to increasing rates of mineral depletion, government regulations, and capital costs here on earth. Successful mine designs in space must address a wide array of challenges including mineral exploration, determining economic recovery rates, safety practices, equipment maintenance, materials handling and transportation, and mineral processing. There is not a cut and dry approach to mine design because a variety of methods exist for specific conditions. The product of this research study will lend to the future development of a reasonable, economic and safe platform on which extraterrestrial mining can be considered. The physical environmental conditions in extraterrestrial mining are in many ways similar to those on earth, however, there are significant differences. On earth, gravitational force assists the excavation and materials handling processes. In space, the lack of gravity impedes both these tasks. Moreover, moons, asteroids, and small planets can be buffeted by micro-asteroid storms, requiring a unique layer of protection not necessary on Earth. The unfiltered radiation and electromagnetic interference from the sun can pose hazards to human health and to electrical systems in the space. As with any new mining environment, extraterrestrial locations present distinct challenges. By consolidating and expanding upon current knowledge pertaining to extraterrestrial mining, this study focuses and directs efforts towards solving resource scarcity through the successful exploitation of natural resources in outer space.