Space-based structures and methods of delivering space-sourced materials

摘要

A method is provided for processing extraterrestrial metal into a metal foam or gossamer structure in space, and delivering the metal foam or gossamer structure intact to the Earth's surface. Additionally, a structure is provided that is formed in space and consists essentially of an extraterrestrial metal.

主权项

1. A method comprising:
extracting extraterrestrial metal with a mining spacecraft, processing the extraterrestrial metal into a metal foam using metal foaming equipment onboard the mining spacecraft while the mining spacecraft is in space or processing the extraterrestrial metal into a gossamer structure using additive manufacturing equipment onboard the mining spacecraft while the mining spacecraft is in space, and delivering the metal foam or gossamer structure intact to the Earth's surface.