The Development of ISRU and ISSE Technologies Leveraging Canadian Mining Expertise

Abstract

F uture space missions to planetary bodies, both manned and robotic, will require the efficient utilization of in‐situ resources to ensure longevity and success. In Situ Resources Utilization (ISRU) and In Situ Support Equipment (ISSE), while requiring the development of new technologies and methods for commodity extraction, will still rely upon some method of mining technology for the harvesting and pre‐beneficiation of the raw materials prior to processing. The Northern Centre for Advanced Technologies Inc., in partnership with Electric Vehicle Controllers Ltd., is presently engaged in the development and adaptation of existing mining technologies and methodologies for use extra‐terrestrially as pre cursor and enabling technologies for ISRU and for use as ISSE in support of longer term missions. More specifically, NORCAT and EVC, in partnership with MD Robotics and under contract to the Canadian Space Agency, are developing a drill and sample handler system for sub surface sampling of planetary bodies, specifically Mars. The partnership brings to the table some formidable world leading expertise in space robotics coupled with world leading expertise in mining technologies.