Scientists have made a breakthrough in producing essential resources for deep space missions using lunar dust. Researchers found that ilmenite, a mineral composed of iron and titanium oxides, can be heated to high temperatures to produce water and hydrogen, which can be used as fuel. The process involves shining simulated sunlight on lunar soil samples, converting the light into heat, and releasing water from the soil. This water is then split using the soil’s natural catalytic properties to produce carbon monoxide, oxygen molecules, and hydrogen, a key ingredient for fuel. Although there are limitations, including the scarcity of ilmenite in some areas of the moon and the need for more efficient CO2 processing, this discovery brings the cost of launching missions into deep space closer to reality.
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Source: https://cen.acs.org/physical-chemistry/astrochemistry/Moon-dust-astronaut-breath-keep/103/web/2025/07