The article explores the potential for extracting oxygen from lunar soil as a key technology to support sustainable human habitation on the Moon, contextualizing this within the emerging competitive space race between the US and China.

The Conversation

To sustainably survive on the Moon, the rock that stretches as far as the eye can see across its surface might well be able to provide us with the air we need to breathe. Eugene A. Cernan/NASA
A new race to the Moon is emerging between the United States and China. Unlike fifty years ago, the goal is no longer just about landing and leaving, but establishing a base that allows for a sustainable presence and extended stays on the surface of our natural satellite. The objective is now to use the Mo