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The Allure ‌and Obstacles of asteroid Mining

Despite‍ ongoing technological advancements and increasing interest from the private sector, extracting ‍resources from asteroids remains‍ a notable challenge. One celestial body capturing ⁤attention is 16 Psyche, a unique asteroid possibly ‌worth a⁢ staggering Rp165,000 septillion⁣ (a number with 24 zeros!).

A Lost planet’s Core

Measuring over 226 kilometers​ in diameter, 16 Psyche ​is believed to be the ​exposed core of a protoplanet that never fully formed. Unlike ​the rocky composition​ of most asteroids, Psyche is thought to be rich⁤ in iron, nickel, and valuable rare metals like ‍platinum and palladium – crucial components in modern electronics and⁢ the automotive industry.

though, NASA’s upcoming mission to Psyche isn’t‌ driven by mining ambitions. The primary goal is to‍ unlock the secrets of planetary formation by studying the​ metallic core of an ancient world, offering an unprecedented glimpse⁣ into the interiors of planets.

Technically Feasible, Financially Challenged

Planetary physicist Philip ‌Metzger of Central Florida University argues that the technical hurdles to asteroid mining ⁢aren’t insurmountable. The key ⁢difference from terrestrial mining‍ lies‌ in ⁢developing equipment capable⁣ of functioning in low gravity and withstanding high radiation levels. Crucially, the necessary ⁤robotic technology‍ and space equipment have already‌ been developed ⁢and tested ‍in laboratory settings.

However, according⁣ to NASA’s Technology Readiness Level (TRL) system, asteroid mining technology currently ​sits at levels 3 to 5. Reaching ⁢mission​ readiness ‍requires levels 6 or⁣ 7, signifying triumphant ‍testing in real space conditions. “The technology ⁣needs⁤ to be‍ improved…before we are ready to build a flight mission. What is lacking right now is funding,” Metzger explains.

The Rise⁢ of Private Space ‌Mining

While public space agencies prioritize research,a growing number of private companies,including AstroForge and TransAstra,are actively pursuing⁢ asteroid mining technologies. They face substantial obstacles related to cost and logistical ‍complexity.

Kevin ​Cannon, an assistant professor ‍at the Colorado School of Mines, questions the economic viability of returning mined materials to Earth. He deems the concept “economically dubious” due to the high‍ mission ⁣costs and the ⁤fluctuating value of ⁢metals, notably platinum group metals.

instead, the most promising avenue appears to be in-situ resource utilization – directly exploiting asteroid resources in space. Water-rich asteroids can be processed into rocket⁤ fuel (hydrogen and oxygen),‌ while metals can be used to construct satellites and space infrastructure, ‌eliminating the⁣ need for costly​ Earth-based launches.

Asteroids vs. the Moon

Although the Moon is closer and possesses valuable resources, its metal content is⁢ significantly lower than that of metallic asteroids like Psyche. While lunar mining​ might be easier,⁣ its unlikely to yield the same abundance‍ of resources.

Asteroids present thier ‍own challenges.⁣ Even “near⁤ Earth” asteroids require ⁤carefully timed orbital windows for safe return missions. NASA’s Psyche probe,for example,is expected to arrive at its‌ destination in 2029 after a six-year journey.

Currently, ⁢several space missions – including OSIRIS-REx, Hayabusa2, and ⁣Hera ⁢- ⁣are laying the‍ groundwork for future mining ‍operations.while not focused on direct metal extraction, these projects are developing essential technologies in‌ navigation,​ sampling, and data return, all critical for‌ successful asteroid mining endeavors.

(Source: detikINET)