The Economic Times

Could astronauts on the Moon manufacture their own tools? NASA tests lunar dust material that could reduce supplies from Earth

NASA researchers are developing a composite material that combines lunar regolith with a biodegradable plastic called poly(3-hydroxybutyrate). This innovative approach aims to manufacture tools and equipment directly on the Moon, rather than transporting everything from Earth. Bacteria may potentially produce the plastic using waste and carbon dioxide available during missions. This strategy is part of a broader effort to utilize resources found on the Moon for sustainable exploration.