Space Race to Mine Helium-3

NASA's Artemis Missions, set to establish a sustained human presence on the moon, are driving a new era of lunar commercialisation. Private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are competing to develop crucial components of the missions, aiming to tap into a potential US$100 billion lunar market. Key players are investing in robotic landers, lunar rovers, and even internet connectivity for future lunar endeavours. In addition to economic interests, geopolitical rivalries are intensifying, with the US and its allies racing against China to secure a foothold on the moon. The moon's resources, particularly helium-3 for clean energy generation and water for fuel, are driving this competitive push, with implications that extend far beyond the lunar surface. Ironically mining the moon for helium-3 could increase demand for helium-4 (vast majority of helium consumed) as it is required for launching the rockets.

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