lunar dust

Dusty data—hydrophobic ceramic surfaces significantly reduce adhesion of simulated lunar dust

By Lisa McDonald / August 11, 2023

Dust mitigation is a priority for space agencies to prevent damage to equipment during surface missions on the moon, Mars, and other celestial bodies. Researchers from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and NASA Langley Research Center used laser ablation to pattern two ceramics with hydrophobic surfaces, which led to a reduction in the adhesion of simulated lunar dust.

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Cultivating Mars colonization: 3-D printing method uses extraterrestrial soil to build biodegradable parts on site

By April Gocha / April 14, 2017

Researchers at Northwestern University have devised a technique to 3-D print soft rubber-like materials out of ink composed primarily of extraterrestrial soil. Using a biologically derived binder to hold the soil particles together, the team demonstrated that their unique method can 3-D print tools, building blocks, and other structures.

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