What type of asteroid does the Institute of Space Sciences recommend for mining?

The Institute of Space Sciences recommends asteroids rich in olivine and spinel minerals for potential mining.

What valuable elements could be extracted from asteroids?

Asteroids could be a source of iron, nickel, gold, platinum, and rare earth elements.

Which California startup is working on asteroid material refining?

California-startup AstroForge is developing technology to refine asteroid material in orbit.

Home / Science / Asteroid Mining: Space Rocks Hold Rare Earth Elements

Asteroid Mining: Space Rocks Hold Rare Earth Elements

1 Jan

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Summary

Researchers identified specific asteroids rich in olivine and spinel minerals.
These minerals suggest the presence of valuable elements like gold and platinum.
New rocket technology aims to make asteroid resource extraction viable.

Asteroid Mining: Space Rocks Hold Rare Earth Elements

The quest for resources beyond Earth is gaining momentum as new rocket technologies emerge, promising to unlock asteroid mining. Scientists have focused on carbon-rich asteroids, the most common type in our solar system, to determine their mining potential. Research published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society highlights a particular type of asteroid as an ideal target for future extraction efforts.

This specialized asteroid type is rich in olivine and spinel minerals. Their presence is a strong indicator for valuable commodities, including iron, nickel, gold, platinum, and rare earth elements. This scientific insight aims to move asteroid resource extraction from science fiction closer to reality, driven by the potential for lucrative returns.