| Abstract Scope |
Saturn’s moon Titan is the only moon in our solar system with a dense atmosphere. Deposits of liquids (methane, ethane) and heavy solids (sooty polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), are widespread on the surface, and orbital data suggests Earth-like polymers are also present. This reservoir of hydrocarbons, together with CO, CO2, and H2O, provides an untapped resource in the outer solar system. Missions could refuel propulsion systems or collect raw materials by using condensation capture, distillation, and other refinement methods. This presentation outlines in-situ resources on Titan and discusses relevant environmental considerations. Transforming Earth-based materials processing in the fields of mining, chemical processing, and manufacturing will benefit from feasibility studies and low-TRL development. Therefore, near-term research, knowledge gaps, and needed innovations are proposed at various levels of complexity and required investment. This talk highlights Titan as an important part of the ISRU conversation as humans expand into the solar system. |