in-situ resource utilization
In-situ resource utilization (ISRU) refers to the practice of using materials found on-site in space exploration, rather than transporting everything from Earth. This approach aims to reduce costs and increase efficiency by utilizing local resources, such as water, minerals, and gases, for various needs like fuel, construction, and life support.
For example, on the Moon or Mars, ISRU could involve extracting water from ice deposits or using regolith (lunar or Martian soil) to create building materials. This strategy is essential for long-term human missions and the establishment of sustainable habitats beyond Earth, supporting initiatives by organizations like NASA and SpaceX.