FARNBOROUGH, England — Mining rare minerals on the moon could mark a new area of competition in space. The U.K.’s top military officer for space, Air Vice-Marshal Paul Godfrey, mentioned the potential for gray zone conflict if nations jump on lunar mining to refill their terrestrial stocks. There is currently no commercial proposition for lunar mining, as the cost may outweigh the benefits.
It is still unclear what types of rare-earth metals are available on the moon, critical for high-tech components. China currently supplies these on Earth, leading European and NATO nations to seek alternative sources. Godfrey sees lunar mining developments as purely commercial, though armed forces are starting to take notice. Key technologies and access to space for all are necessary for lunar mining to become feasible.
Questions about staking claims on the moon for mining purposes have started to arise. Godfrey raised practical questions about moon mining, such as the need to protect specific areas. Technological advancements in reducing space launch costs and on-orbit manufacturing are considered essential steps towards achieving the vision of moon mining.
