The utilization of extraterrestrial resources is essential for sustaining long-term space exploration and reducing dependency on Earth-based supply chains. Our innovative robotic-assisted regolith processing system will efficiently extract aluminum, silicon, calcium salt and oxygen as co-products, providing critical materials for construction, manufacturing, and propulsion. Designed for deployment on the Earth, Moon, and Mars, this system will be automated to integrate state-of-the-art robotics, advanced thermal extraction, and optimized electrolytic reduction to maximize yield, scalability, and sustainability.

Current resource extraction methods are either Earth-bound, labor-intensive, or unsuitable for extraterrestrial operations. Our system addresses key challenges of in-situ resource utilization, enabling local material production for infrastructure development and propulsion fuel generation.

Potential Benefits

• Satellite Sustainability: Supplies materials for servicing and refueling Earth satellites, extending their operational lifespan, saving billions in replacement costs, and reducing orbital waste in a period of growing orbital debris.
• Economic Growth: Opens new commercial opportunities in space industries.
• Infrastructure Development: Provides essential materials for construction.
• Space Exploration: Enables sustainable lunar and Martian habitats.

Our system consists of a modular processing unit. The first stage involves electrostatic sorting to isolate mineral-rich fractions. The regolith then enters an acid reactor. It proceeds to a high-temperature furnace before undergoing electrolysis.

1. Aluminum Extraction: Acid digestion separates aluminum oxide from silica.
2. Oxygen Extraction: Thermochemical decomposition of oxides yields elemental oxygen, which is liquefied and stored while isolating pure aluminium.
3. Automation: A sophisticated robotic system will be used to reduce the need for direct human interaction.

Our approach surpasses current terrestrial mining and proposed space resource extraction methods through:

• Multi-Coproduct Yield: Extracting aluminum and oxygen simultaneously while recovering silica.
• Hybrid Acid Processing: Reduces energy consumption compared to conventional methods and sustainably regenerates the acid.
• Adaptability: Designed to be usable on various planetary bodies.

This system is designed for applications in space settlements, space manufacturing, and terrestrial mining. Future integration with orbital depots, moon bases, and Martian colonies positions it as a cornerstone technology for the expanding space economy. Additionally, Earth-based deployment offers an innovative approach to sustainable mineral extraction, reducing energy consumption and emissions.

Modular production ensures cost-effectiveness, with expenses projected to be lower than conventional mining operations due to automation and renewable energy utilization.

This technology will advance global innovation and serve public interests by:

• By reducing human exposure to hazardous environments.
• Automating extraction saves time and money.
• Supporting large-scale industrial processes in space.
• Oxygen extraction contributing to sustainable space-based propulsion and life support.
• Reducing Natural Resource Consumption and Waste by extending satellite operational life while reducing consumption of Earth-based resources.
• Expanding opportunities in space engineering, robotics, and energy sectors.
• Bolstering the Economy by strengthening emerging space infrastructure investments.
• Supporting advancements in construction, energy, and aerospace applications.

This pioneering system paves the way to supplying on-orbit servicing companies with sustainable propellant while supporting efforts for sustainable space colonization, reshaping the future of resource utilization and planetary exploration.