DCU researchers work on extracting oxygen from lunar soil

Dublin City University researchers are investigating methods to extract oxygen from lunar soil, a crucial step in establishing sustainable Moon bases. The challenge lies in removing oxygen from minerals that lock it within the lunar soil, a process typically requiring extreme temperatures of 1,000 - 1,700C. However, a team led by Dr Rajani Vijayaraghavan at DCU is focused on developing techniques that can achieve oxygen extraction at temperatures below 400C.

This innovation could make oxygen extraction more feasible for future lunar missions. Beyond supporting human life by enabling breathing, oxygen is vital for producing rocket propellant, rendering it a strategically important resource for a self-sustaining presence on the Moon. The research is a collaborative effort involving DCU, the European Space Agency, and international partners.