This start-up is looking to space to make mining more sustainable
This video is part of: Centre for Frontier Technologies and Innovation
AstroForge is building a system for mining asteroids, focusing on 6 elements, known as the platinum group metals. Platinum group metals are used across many different industries, from electronics and pharmaceuticals to the microchips that power AI. But platinum mining on Earth can be environmentally challenging. On an asteroid, concentrations of platinum are about 5,000 times greater which - theoretically - should make mining them in space greener, even factoring in rocket fuel.
Start-up AstroForge is turning to space to meet rising demand for critical minerals. The company is developing technology to mine asteroids for platinum group metals, aiming to reduce the environmental toll of traditional mining on Earth.
Why mine in space
Platinum mining on Earth often involves digging up to 2,000 metres underground, consuming vast energy and disrupting ecosystems. In contrast, platinum concentrations on asteroids are estimated to be 5,000 times higher. Even accounting for rocket launches, AstroForge says its approach is significantly cleaner than Earth-based mining.
How AstroForge plans to extract metals in space
AstroForge will not use traditional mining equipment. Instead, it plans to use lasers to cut into asteroids and magnets to separate iron and nickel from platinum-rich dust. The system runs on solar energy and avoids creating environmental harm on Earth.
The race to meet critical mineral demand
Demand for critical minerals could triple by 2050 and outpace supply by 2030. AstroForge is already testing its technology in deep space, with a spacecraft reaching 850,000 kilometers from Earth. A new mission, set for 2026, will attempt the first commercial landing on an asteroid.
Space tech for Earth’s future
Though asteroid mining may take decades to scale, it represents a new frontier in sustainable resource sourcing. AstroForge, a 2025 World Economic Forum Technology Pioneer, is part of a growing space economy expected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035.
Watch the video to learn how space mining could help meet Earth’s needs with less environmental impact.
