Lunar resources

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The Moon bears substantial natural resources which could be exploited in the future. Potential lunar resources may encompass processable materials such as volatiles and minerals, along with geologic structures such as lava tubes that, together, might enable lunar habitation. The in-situ use (ISRU) of resources on the Moon may provide a means of reducing the cost and risk of lunar exploration and beyond.

Resource mapping and sample-return missions have enhanced the understanding of the potential for lunar ISRU. An assessment in 2019 concluded that knowledge was not yet sufficient to justify the commitment of large financial resources to implement an ISRU-based campaign. The determination of resource availability will drive the selection of sites for human settlement.

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