Interlune, a stealth technology startup led by former Blue Origin executives, is currently focusing on mining the rare isotope helium-3 (He-3) on the Moon. This isotope has enormous potential for applications ranging from scaling quantum computing to fusion. According to TechCrunch, last week the company raised $15.5 million in new capital, following a previous round of $2.69 million.
The announcement of the capital increase raised questions. But confidential presentations by Interlune reveal that the startup is seeking funds to develop equipment to extract He-3 from lunar regolith. Information about the extraction methods and technologies to be used is kept secret.
He-3 amasses on the Moon due to the influence of the solar wind. This is possible because the Moon does not have a magnetic field, which is present on the Earth and serves to protect it from the solar wind. Interlune forecasts a significant demand for helium-3. In the future, it will be used in quantum computers, fusion reactors, and as a space fuel. Interlune has ambitious plans to extract it on the Moon and transport the valuable resource to Earth.
Other countries, such as China, are also showing interest in helium-3 mining. This is becoming a national security issue, as protecting these resources could be a key challenge.
Interlune plans to demonstrate the technology in 2026 and launch a pilot project to extract He-3 on the Moon in 2028. The company expects annual revenues of $500 million by 2040. However, the cost of implementing the plan remains unknown. The fact is that such a project would require incredibly high costs, which are currently even difficult to calculate.
Interlune is one of the few companies that are seriously engaged in the problem of space resources extraction, in particular helium-3. The successful implementation of their plans may determine their position in the new era of the space industry.
Earlier, we reported on how to make money creating industry in space.
