Closing Bell Manifest Space: Lunar Resources with Interlune CEO Rob Meyerson 5/9/25
May 9, 2025
Rob Meyerson, CEO and co-founder of Interlune and former leader at Blue Origin, discusses the burgeoning field of moon mining. He reveals that the Department of Energy has already purchased lunar helium-3, a rare resource with immense potential for energy and medical applications. The conversation covers advancements in extraction technologies and the collaboration between government and private sectors to create a sustainable lunar economy. Meyerson also explores how autonomous mining technology could revolutionize both lunar and Earth-based mining.
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First Customers for Lunar Helium-3
- Interlune signed its first customers including the U.S. Department of Energy for helium-3 deliveries starting in 2029.
- This marks the first government purchase of a resource sourced from space.
Helium-3's Unique Market Value
- Helium-3 commands a price of $20 million per kilogram, making it the only space resource economically viable to return to Earth currently.
- Interlune plans to expand beyond helium-3 to include propellants, water, and industrial metals in the near future.
Efficient Lunar Excavation Strategy
- Focus on mechanical excavation to extract helium-3 with about ten times less energy than other methods.
- Partner with industry leaders like Vermeer Corporation to build large lunar soil excavators for efficient processing.