SciLux podcast – Tim Schild on Lunar Regolith

19 February 2025

Resources Available on the Moon

Lunar regolith is the scientific term for the loose rock found on the Moon. At ESRIC, Timon Schild’s research focuses on the use of this resource for future lunar bases and space missions.

Timon Schild is a doctoral researcher at the European Space Resources Innovation Center (ESRIC) where he conducts research on lunar resources utilisation.

Listen to Timon Schild to learn more about resources available on the moon, and more especially lunar regolith, and the concept of In Situ Resource Utilisation (ISRU).

Listen to the new SciLux episode

In Situ Resource Utilisation

We want to be able to find resources where we are in space.

Timon Schild

In Situ Resource Utilisation (ISRU) focuses on the use of natural resources found on celestial bodies, particularly the Moon, which offers a unique opportunity for exploration as it is the closest celestial body to Earth. The idea is not just to bring materials back to Earth, but to use what we find on the lunar surface.

One of the key issues is lunar regolith, the loose rock and dust that covers the Moon. Far from being a nuisance, regolith is a treasure trove of resources, including oxygen and construction materials. Interestingly, while oxygen is abundant on Earth, it becomes a precious commodity on the Moon, essential for breathing and as fuel for rockets.

The episode also explores the challenges of lunar mining. While the term “mining” often carries negative connotations due to environmental concerns on Earth, lessons from the mining industry could provide valuable insights for lunar resource exploitation.

Space Research in Luxembourg

For nearly four decades, space has been part of Luxembourg’s industrial strategy. Today, Luxembourg is a leader in the satellite operator business and has high aspirations in the New Space Industry. This ambition is supported by public funding, an attractive legal framework and tax regime, research, international cooperation and education.

Space Research in Luxembourg

A podcast to highlight research made in Luxembourg

Research Luxembourg and SciLux have teamed up to launch a new series of podcasts showcasing science in Luxembourg and beyond.

With a new episode every 2 weeks published, ‘SciLux powered by Research Luxembourg’ will showcase research activities and scientific cooperation in Luxembourg.

Learn more on the SciLux X Research Luxembourg podcast