Space
Infinite Space Travel? University of Southampton is testing an innovative rocket propulsion system that allows it to collect metals from comets and moons to propel spacecraft indefinitely
Scientists at the University of Southampton are developing technology that could revolutionize space travel: metal-powered rocket boosters. Yes, common metals that could take spacecraft to regions never reached.
#newsonleo #space #technology #science
The research, led by Dr. Minkwan Kim, is in the testing phase and promises to challenge the limits of what we know about space propulsion.
Unlike conventional systems that use rare gases, such as krypton or xenon, to propel satellites and other spacecraft, this new system uses any metal that can be burned, such as iron, aluminum or copper.
This innovative approach not only eliminates the need to transport large quantities of fuel from Earth, but also opens the door to continued, expansive exploration of the cosmos.
“Spacecraft have limited amounts of fuel due to the high cost and energy required to launch them into space,” explains Dr. Kim. “With this new system, the spacecraft could refuel itself with metals available in space, allowing for uninterrupted travel.”
Mining metals in space for use in spacecraft is not just a theoretical idea. Asteroids and moons are full of valuable resources such as iron, nickel, platinum and even gold.
These precious metals are rare on Earth and expensive to extract, but they exist in abundance in space and can be used in spacecraft. Platinum group metals, for example, are highly sought after due to their use in electronics, catalysts and renewable energy technologies.
This availability of resources allows us to imagine a future where rockets can fuel themselves during their journey, making deep space exploration more viable than ever.