SRIC4 #20: “Use of space resources: Moon, Asteroids, Mars, and beyond” with Paolo Ferri

This is the preliminary webinar #20 of the IV SRI World Congress (SRIC4)

Abstract

In recent years discussion has intensified on potential future use of local resources on solar system bodies. Objectives vary from support to further exploration (e.g. local generation of rocket fuel) to commercial exploitation (e.g. mining for precious minerals). While the perspectives are exciting, the technology required to achieve these objectives is still rather immature. This talk will discuss the challenges of exploiting local resources on “nearby” targets, such as the Moon, asteroids and Mars, identifying the main milestones to be achieved, starting from the current status of technology and operational experience.

A short bio

Paolo Ferri studied theoretical physics at the University of Pavia. 1984 he joined ESA as astrophysicist at the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Germany. 1986 he moved to the field of mission operations, working on a number of scientific missions. 1996 he became operations manager for Rosetta, first historical mission to rendezvous with and land on a comet. He led this mission at different levels for 20 years, until its completion. From 2006 to 2013 he was responsible for the operations of all ESA missions in the Solar System, and from 2013 to 2020 he was head of ESA’s mission operations department, responsible for the ground segment and operations of all ESA robotic missions. He is currently active in training, education and outreach in the field of space operations and space science and technology. He is member of the International Academy of Astronautics and of the British Interplanetary Society.