At the same time that foreign companies' deep space industry plans to carry out asteroid mining projects, NASA does not seem to be waiting for it. It is reported that this government agency wants to carry out mining work on the moon, Mars and other asteroids. NASA said that they hope that through this program, astronauts can mine the ore materials that can be used and clean up the open space where they can build buildings.
At present, this organization has developed a remote control robot RASSOR (Regolith Advanced Surface Systems Operations Robot, weathered layer advanced surface system operation robot). NASA points out that they spend $4,000 per 1 lb (0.45 kg) payload on space, so it is critical for them to minimize the weight of the RASSOR. Unfortunately, for a miner, lighter weight means more difficult mining work. Currently, this RASSOR weighs 100 pounds (45 kg).
According to NASA, the speed of the RASSOR bit is 20 rpm. During the turning process, it will be trimmed by trimming to avoid damage that may be caused to the underlying soil layer. When RASSOR collects 40 pounds (18 kg) of material, it returns to the processing base and delivers the collected material to the platform for processing in a zigzag pattern.
According to NASA, 90% of rocket propellant fuel can be processed on the moon, so if the lunar soil can be processed into water and fuel, they will save a lot of money.
In addition, RASSOR can overcome the harsh terrain and even lift a huge stone through its arm.
NASA pointed out that they have already started the research and development of the next generation of RASSOR, and hope to replace the tank track that is currently used with wheels. It is reported that the second generation of RASSOR will be completed in the next year and will be put into the test.
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