All articles tagged with #regolith
Scientists have successfully produced iron from Mars-like soil conditions on Earth, paving the way for in-situ metal manufacturing on Mars, which could significantly reduce the need to transport materials from Earth for future colonies.
Researchers with the ESA PAVER project have developed a method to melt lunar regolith with lasers, creating interlocking pavers that could be used to construct paved roads and landing pads on the Moon. The hardened molten regolith is durable enough to withstand the weight of rovers and spacecraft, minimizing dust kickup. This technology could play a significant role in the development of lunar infrastructure and contribute to all phases of lunar exploration. In-situ production of paving materials from available resources on the Moon is preferred to reduce costs and logistical challenges. Further research and testing are needed, including using a lens to concentrate sunlight instead of a laser, but this method shows promise for future lunar missions.
NASA's Moon to Mars Planetary Autonomous Construction Technology (MMPACT) team is preparing for the first construction projects on a planetary body beyond Earth. The team is planning to use regolith, the Moon's surface material, to build sustainable, long-lasting structures. The first step toward 3D printing on the Moon will involve using lasers or microwaves to melt regolith, which will then be printed into desired shapes. The team is also developing synthetic versions of lunar regolith to experiment with. The MMPACT team's first off-planet project is tentatively scheduled for late 2027.
NASA's Moon to Mars Planetary Autonomous Construction Technology (MMPACT) team is preparing for the first construction projects on a planetary body beyond Earth. To avoid the high cost of shipping material from Earth, the team plans to use the regolith that's already there, turning it into a paste that can be 3D printed into thin layers or different shapes. The team's first off-planet project is tentatively scheduled for late 2027. The MMPACT team has to make their own synthetic versions of lunar regolith to make it into a building material strong enough and durable enough to protect human life.