Chinese scientists are preparing to build a Magnetic Space Launcher to transport helium from the Moon to Earth. The launcher will weigh 80 metric tons (800 quintals) and cost around Rs 1.5 lakh crore. It will be used to extract the isotope helium-3 present on the surface of the Moon.
According to researchers at the Shanghai Institute of Satellite Engineering, helium-3 is a promising way to get clean energy from nuclear fusion. Just 20 tons of helium-3 can be enough to meet China’s energy needs for a year.
The date when the launcher will be ready has not been told yet. It will be designed to last at least 20 years on the surface of the Moon. It is believed that this plan may be linked to the joint space program of Russia and China. In this, both the countries had also proposed to build a research station on the South Pole of the Moon by 2035.
Magnetic Space Launcher: India preparing to bring soil and stones from the moon
After the success of Chandrayaan-3, ISRO is now preparing for Chandrayaan 4 and 5. ISRO chief Dr. S. Somnath said on Tuesday (August 20) that the space agency has prepared the design for the next phase of the Moon mission. The process of getting approval from the government is underway.
This includes bringing moon rocks and soil to Earth after soft landing on the lunar surface in Chandrayaan-4 mission. And launching a spacecraft from the Moon, performing a space docking experiment in the lunar orbit and bringing the samples back to Earth.
