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How an abandoned mine became Korea’s moon lab
- Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) is repurposing an abandoned mine shaft in Taebaek City into a lunar research facility.
- The abandoned mine will serve as a simulation site for lunar-like conditions, offering an ideal testing ground for space technologies.
- Scientists aim to demonstrate technologies for extracting resources directly from the moon, focusing on helium-3 and rare-earth elements.
- KIGAM conducted a live demonstration of lunar rover technology and in-situ resource utilization devices inside the abandoned mine shaft.
- The institute showcased devices like a Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) system and a resource extractor designed for lunar regolith.
- Research partnerships with institutes like Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute and Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute are driving advancements in lunar exploration technology.
- Efforts are underway to develop approximately 10 major exploration equipment pieces for lunar research by 2029.
- Challenges remain in replicating the lunar environment within the mine, with plans to enhance simulation accuracy through gravity-altering technologies.
- The initiative represents a shift from coal mining in Taebaek to space research, aiming to bring lunar resources like helium-3 to Earth for potential fusion energy use.
- KIGAM's mission signifies a transformation from coal-driven economic growth to pioneering space resource development, showcasing Korea's commitment to lunar exploration.
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