Lunar resources - What is known and expected
Abstract
It is known that the easily mined lunar regolith can be processed to provide the bulk of the basic materials needed for large-scale lunar construction. The uses of such materials include radiation shielding made from loose or bagged regolith; reinforced slabs, beams, etc. made from the lunar equivalent of cast basalt and anhydrous glass; cords, cables, cloth, etc. made from spun glass fibers; and products made of ceramics and cement. More extensive processing of the regolith will produce oxygen for propellant and life support as well as large quantities of iron, aluminum, magnesium, calcium, and titanium.
- Publication:
-
Engineering, Construction, and Operations in Space
- Pub Date:
- 1988
- Bibcode:
- 1988ecos.proc...48B
- Keywords:
-
- Extraterrestrial Resources;
- Lunar Composition;
- Lunar Exploration;
- Lunar Bases;
- Lunar Surface;
- Regolith;
- Space Commercialization;
- Lunar and Planetary Exploration