Phase 0: Space Resource Processing

Before we can build millions of solar collector satellites, we need raw materials. Earth-based resources are expensive to launch into orbit, making space-based resource extraction essential for any megastructure project.

Why Start with Mining?

The economics are simple: launching materials from Earth costs approximately $2,500-10,000 per kilogram. At these prices, a single solar collector satellite would be economically unfeasible. Asteroid mining changes this equation entirely.

Target Asteroids

We've identified several categories of near-Earth asteroids suitable for initial mining operations:

• C-type asteroids: Rich in water and organic compounds
• M-type asteroids: Metallic composition, ideal for structural materials
• S-type asteroids: Silicate-rich, useful for various applications

Key Technologies

Phase 0 requires development in several areas:

• Autonomous mining robots
• In-situ resource utilization (ISRU) systems
• Orbital processing facilities
• Material transport systems

See our detailed Bill of Materials for cost estimates.