Researchers Found a Surprisingly Realistic Way To Mine Asteroids for Mars

EPFL researchers modeled asteroid-to-Mars supply chains and found some nearby asteroids could realistically support future Mars bases.

The study points to metals and water-derived rocket fuel from M-type and carbonaceous asteroids, including targets like 253 Mathilde.

This could make sustained off-Earth industry more plausible by reducing reliance on Earth-launched cargo.

For Mars settlement logistics, asteroid mining may lower long-term mission costs and enable in-space propellant production.