Space Resources Utilisation and Space Economy
- Paper number
GLEX-2025,7,1,5,x92834
- Author
Mr. Majd Alsadi, Jordan
- Coauthor
Mrs. SALAM ABUALHAYJA'A, Jordan
- Coauthor
Ms. Dina Radaideh, Jordan
- Coauthor
Ms. Raneem Alazzam, Jordan University of Science & Technology, Jordan
- Coauthor
Mr. Ahmad Mustafa, Jordan
- Year
2025
- Abstract
Space resource utilization—the extraction and use of materials found in space—holds transformative potential for both space exploration and the emerging space economy. With the escalating interest in establishing a human presence on the Moon and Mars, as well as enabling sustainable long-term missions, leveraging resources like water, metals, and minerals from celestial bodies could significantly reduce the need to transport all supplies from Earth, reducing costs and expanding mission possibilities. One of the most critical resources in space is water. Found in the form of ice on the Moon, Mars, and certain asteroids, water is not only essential for human survival but also a potential source of fuel. Through a process known as electrolysis, water can be split into hydrogen and oxygen, which can then be used to create rocket fuel. This capability would enable in-situ refueling, allowing spacecraft to journey farther and even create refueling stations at strategic points, such as on the Moon or in lunar orbit. Such advancements would pave the way for more flexible and cost-effective deep space missions. Mining other space resources, such as metals, also presents tremendous opportunities. Asteroids, for example, are rich in valuable materials, including iron, nickel, and even precious metals like platinum. These metals could be used to construct habitats and other structures in space without requiring heavy materials to be launched from Earth. There is also the prospect of creating a new space-based economy around asteroid mining, where precious metals and rare earth elements could eventually be harvested and brought back to Earth, potentially supplying resources for advanced electronics and green technologies. The Moon is poised to play a central role in space resource utilization. With substantial deposits of helium-3—a potential clean nuclear fusion fuel—lunar resources could provide significant energy sources in the future. Moreover, the Moon's regolith contains oxygen, which can be extracted and used in life-support systems or fuel production, supporting lunar habitats and future exploration missions. The development of a space economy centered on resource utilization is not without its challenges. Extracting, processing, and transporting materials in the vacuum of space requires advanced technology and substantial investment. International cooperation and legal frameworks will be crucial, as current space treaties do not fully address resource ownership and usage rights.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
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