Scientists develop a device that uses bacteria to mine rocks on Mars and the Moon

Space mining may soon become a reality as scientists have unveiled a device, which uses bacteria to extract metals and minerals from rocks on Mars and the Moon.

Developed during a decade-long study by scientists from the Center for Astrobiology at the University of Edinburgh, the matchbox-sized mining device, called a biomining reactor, uses three microorganisms.

Researchers discovered during tests performed by astronauts on the International Space Station that the technology could work in all conditions of gravity and could provide metals and minerals such as iron and magnesium, essential for survival in space.

The team’s findings suggest that the bacteria could improve the removal of rare earth elements from basalt in lunar and Martian landscapes by up to about 400%.

Rare earth elements are widely used in high-tech industries, including cell phones, computers, and magnets. Basalt is a rock formed by the rapid cooling of lava rich in magnesium and iron.

According to the research, these forms of microorganisms are already in use on Earth to extract valuable elements from rocks, such as copper and gold.

Professor Charles Cockell of the School of Physics and Astronomy said, “Our experiments support the scientific and technical feasibility of biologically enhanced elemental extraction through the Solar System.

“While it is not economically feasible to mine these elements into space and bring them to Earth, space biomination could potentially support a self-sustaining human presence in space.”

The experiment received funding from the British Space Agency and the European Space Agency.