By the end of this decade, nations and private companies may well be mining the surface of the moon. But as space becomes accessible to more nations and corporations, we need to stop and ask ourselves what commercial activities we want to permit, including on the moon. Now is the time to create the rules and regulations that will protect humanity's shared future in space and ensure the moon remains a symbol and inspiration for generations to come.
1. Why mine the moon?
NASA's multibillion-dollar Artemis program isn't just about sending astronauts back to the moon. It's about paving the way for mining operations. China is also on a similar trajectory, resulting in a new lunar race with private companies competing to determine how to extract the moon's resources and potentially selling it back to governments in a cosmic supply chain.
Currently, all supplies for space exploration are shipped from Earth. Essentials like water and fuel become incredibly costly. By the time a single liter of water reaches the moon, it costs more than gold. However, if we convert water ice on the moon into hydrogen and oxygen, refueling spacecraft on-site becomes a viable option, making deeper space missions, particularly to Mars, more feasible.
The moon is rich in rare Earth metals, critical for technologies like smartphones, which means lunar mining could relieve some pressure from Earth's diminishing reserves. Therefore, it is possible that private companies could begin lunar mining operations before NASA sends its next astronaut.
2. Could mining change how we see the moon from Earth?
When material is extracted from the moon, dust gets kicked up. Without an atmosphere to slow it down, this lunar dust can travel vast distances. This surface material is "space weathered" and less reflective than the more pristine material beneath it. Disturbing lunar dust can cause some patches of the moon to appear brighter, while areas that have dust resettled on them look duller. Even small-scale operations can disturb enough dust to create discernible changes over time.
Therefore, managing lunar dust will be a crucial factor in ensuring sustainable and minimally disruptive mining practices.
3. Who owns the moon?
The Outer Space Treaty (1967) explicitly states that no nation may claim ownership of the moon or any celestial body. However, it is less certain whether a company harvesting resources from the moon violates this non-appropriation clause.
Two later agreements take this further. The 1979 Moon Treaty asserts that the moon and its natural resources belong to the "common heritage of mankind," frequently interpreted as a prohibition on lunar mining.
Conversely, the 2020 Artemis Accords support mining operations while reaffirming the Outer Space Treaty’s rejection of any claims of ownership over the moon itself.
Moreover, the Outer Space Treaty emphasizes that the exploration of space should benefit everyone on Earth, not just the wealthier nations and corporations capable of reaching the moon. Hence, when considering resource extraction, it can be argued that all nations should partake in the rewards of any future lunar mining endeavors.
4. What would miners' lives be like on the moon?
Imagine you've worked 12 hours straight in harsh, polluted conditions. You are thirsty, hungry, and overwhelmed. Some of your colleagues have collapsed or suffered injuries due to fatigue. Overall, you all desire another job that prioritizes safety, fair compensation, and reasonable hours. However, you cannot leave; you're stranded in space.
This dystopian scenario underscores the potential risks of hastily moving into lunar mining without taking into account the hazards to workers.
Working in low-gravity environments can result in various health risks. Lunar miners may experience:
- bone and muscle loss
- osteoporosis
- kidney and cardiovascular complications, and
- impaired immune response.
Exposure to cosmic radiation not only increases the risk of various cancers but can also disrupt fertility.
Lunar miners will also endure prolonged isolation and significant psychological stress. It will be essential to establish sound laws and guidelines tailored to safeguarding the health and well-being of the space workforce.
Given that regulatory bodies will be situated far away on Earth, miners could be left powerless if pressed to work excessive hours in hazardous circumstances.
British astrobiologist Charles S. Cockell warns that this dynamic may render space prone to tyranny. According to him, individuals in positions of power could exploit those in vulnerable situations.
The moon undoubtedly presents extraordinary potential as a launching point for human exploration and a prospective source of resources to maintain life on Earth and beyond. However, historical evidence underscores the repercussions of unchecked exploitation. Prior to initiating lunar mining, we must formulate robust regulations prioritizing fairness, safety, and human rights.
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