NASA has made a significant breakthrough by extracting oxygen from simulated lunar soil using a specialized carbothermal reactor during tests at Johnson Space Center. This achievement supports the goal of a sustainable human presence on the Moon, essential for Artemis missions and future space exploration. The extraction process allows for the utilization of lunar resources, providing oxygen not only for breathing but also as a propellant to extend lunar missions.
The unique test was conducted in a vacuum chamber designed to mimic lunar conditions, where a high-powered laser heated the lunar simulant to facilitate oxygen extraction. The successful detection of carbon monoxide confirmed the reactor’s functionality, advancing the technology to a readiness level for potential use in space missions.
This technology could produce significant amounts of oxygen on the Moon annually, thereby fostering a sustainable lunar economy and human habitats. Funded by the Game Changing Development program, the Carbothermal Reduction Demonstration aims to address critical technology gaps in lunar resource utilization. The advancements could also support future manned missions to Mars, as NASA prepares to position itself for long-term explorations beyond the Moon.
