The year 2025 marks a decisive turning point in space exploration, with the start of helium-3 extraction on the Moon. This precious resource, often described as the “fuel of the future”, is attracting growing interest because of its potential to revolutionize energy production on Earth.
Recent technological advances and ambitious lunar missions are paving the way for a new era of extraterrestrial mining. Helium-3 could well become the key to meeting the world’s energy needs while reducing our carbon footprint. Find out how this lunar quest promises to transform our energy future.
The importance of helium-3 for the future of energy and technology
Helium-3, an isotope rare on Earth but abundant on the Moon, could transform our approach to clean energy and advanced technologies. This non-radioactive gas is prized for its potential in nuclear fusion reactors, promising energy without radioactive waste.
In addition, it is crucial for cooling quantum computers, facilitating their large-scale development. Seattle-based Interlune has developed a technology to extract helium-3 from lunar soil, with sales already concluded with the US Department of Energy and Maybell Quantum. This initiative could mark a turning point in the exploitation of space resources and technological innovation.
Interlune and its innovative lunar extraction technology
Founded by Rob Meyerson, former president of Blue Origin, Interlune has teamed up with Vermeer to develop a revolutionary lunar excavator. This prototype, capable of digging to a depth of three meters, processes 100 tons of regolith per hour to extract helium-3. Thanks to a chemical process adapted to lunar conditions, the excavator efficiently separates helium-3 from other gases.
Currently being tested in terrestrial simulations, this equipment will not bring lunar soil back to Earth, but will concentrate the helium-3 directly on site. This approach reduces costs and optimizes process efficiency, paving the way for sustainable exploitation of lunar resources.
Phases of the Interlune project: From Crescent Moon to Harvest Moon
The Interlune project is divided into three distinct phases. The first, Crescent Moon, scheduled for late 2025, involves sending a hyperspectral camera to the lunar south pole to identify areas rich in helium-3. Next, the Prospect Moon mission will involve a lander equipped with advanced sensors to validate gas concentration and test extraction technologies on site.
Finally, the Harvest Moon phase, expected by 2029, will demonstrate the complete extraction process and return the helium-3 to Earth. Each stage presents major technical challenges, but their successful completion could revolutionize clean energy and quantum computing, while meeting Interlune’s contractual commitments.
