Past, present and future rationale for space resource utilisation. (March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Meurisse, Alexandre; Carpenter, James
• Is Part Of: Planetary and space science. Volume 182(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-03
• Subjects: History -- ISRU -- Moon -- Mars -- Space resources; Space sciences -- Periodicals; Atmosphere, Upper -- Periodicals; Sciences spatiales -- Périodiques; Haute atmosphère -- Périodiques; 523
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pss.2020.104853
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-0633

Abstract

Abstract: As the utilisation of materials from the Moon, Mars, and asteroids is once again under the spotlight with the publication of a space resources strategy in Europe, and the preparation of lunar surface missions in the US, it is crucial to understand the past implementation failures of In-Situ Resource Utilisation (ISRU) in mission architectures. Going back to the stone age of Space Resource Utilisation (SRU), the authors observed the steps of the field forwards and backwards. Once the national pride in a space race faded away, most of the SRU visions have been perceived too big too soon, preventing any long-term commitment by politicians. The lack of consistency in space programs between US president mandates has also been heretofore responsible for the erratic development of ISRU technologies. This steady instability in the field did not give the private sector the confidence to take the lead, first to the Moon, as a major investor. Looking at the present and future, the authors are more optimistic than ever as the use of space resources has now reached an international dimension. Europe is running space resource activities and has developed a short- and medium-term strategy. The intents of China and the US to settle on the Moon will likely maintain a climate favourable to the development of the ISRU processes and technologies indispensable for long-duration missions at a reasonable cost. The long-term success of SRU will however only be ensured by keeping the "living off the land" vision while flying small payloads to the lunar surface to build up interest, expertise, and outreach in the space community. Highlights: Space Resource Utilisation initiatives exist in the history of Space Exploration. SRU is key to the sustainability of space exploration. Lack of commitments from decision-makers have been detrimental to the field. Lack of a secured market prevents massive investment from the private sector. Small demonstration missions would give further confidence in SRU.