The collaboration will focus on several key initiatives:
Joint Development of Lunar Infrastructure: Astroport and Orbit Fab will work together on designing, building, and deploying systems for in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) on the Moon. This effort will aim to convert lunar regolith into essential resources like water, oxygen, and metals, which will be used for constructing landing pads, habitats, and establishing a spacecraft refueling supply chain.
Enhancement of In-Space Refueling: The partnership will support the expansion of Orbit Fab's "Gas Stations in Space" refueling network, ensuring a steady supply of fuel and other critical resources for spacecraft in lunar orbit and on the Moon's surface. This approach will help extend mission durations, lower launch costs, and mitigate risks associated with long-term space operations.
Technology Demonstrations: Astroport and Orbit Fab will conduct both terrestrial and lunar demonstrations to validate their joint technologies and solutions for lunar exploration.
Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration: The partners will actively exchange scientific and technical knowledge, fostering collaboration to advance space exploration innovations in alignment with NASA's Artemis mission.
NASA's Artemis Plan highlights the importance of ISRU for sustained lunar operations, stating: "ISRU will enable the production of fuel, water, and/or oxygen from local materials, allowing for sustainable surface activities with decreasing resupply requirements from Earth."
"This strategic alliance marks a significant step forward in our mission to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon," said Sam Ximenes, founder and CEO of Astroport. "By developing our technologies in essential lunar resource extraction with a supporting infrastructure enabling a supply chain capability for Orbit Fab's innovative approach to orbital in-space refueling, we can create the foundation for a thriving lunar economy."
Daniel Faber, CEO of Orbit Fab, added, "We are excited to partner with Astroport to explore the vast potential of lunar resources and to develop the infrastructure needed to support and fuel future space exploration activities. Together, we can unlock the opportunities that the Moon offers for scientific discovery, economic development, and human advancement."