Photo credit: www.nasa.gov

Collaborative Workshop Explores Off-World Resource Technologies

Navigating the intersection of earthbound resource exploration and extraterrestrial pursuits, NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) convened a diverse group of stakeholders in February at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California. This workshop aimed to address the pressing need for advanced technologies in resource detection and development, both on our planet and beyond.

Bringing together over 300 participants, both in person and through virtual platforms, the event focused on identifying the necessary tools and techniques to locate and map essential resources like critical minerals and water ice on the Moon, various planets, their moons, and asteroids. Discussion topics included innovative sensing technologies for subsurface imaging of planetary bodies, the development of cost-effective operational platforms, and novel concepts for utilizing these technologies effectively.

The importance of scientific studies and analyses of off-world environments was emphasized, as these will play a crucial role in identifying and characterizing valuable extraterrestrial resources. By aligning technology goals with fundamental scientific inquiries, the workshop seeks to foster a holistic approach to resource exploration.

This event marked the third gathering in a series titled Planetary Subsurface Exploration for Science and Resources. By harnessing insights gained from decades of terrestrial resource management along with expertise from the space technology and mission sectors, NASA and USGS are striving to ignite collaboration among industry leaders, governmental bodies, and academic institutions. This cooperative effort aims to drive the development of groundbreaking concepts and technologies for a flourishing off-world economy.

Source
www.nasa.gov