Interlune, a space exploration startup founded in 2020, has already secured $18 million in seed capital and has notable founders such as Rob Meyerson, Gary Lai, and Apollo 17 moonwalker Harrison Schmitt. Helium-3, a valuable isotope abundant on the moon, has various applications on Earth, including in quantum computing and fusion reactors. Interlune has partnered with organizations like Bluefors and the Department of the Air Force to develop technology for extracting lunar helium-3.
The market rate for helium-3 is lucrative, with estimates reaching up to $20 million per kilogram. Interlune’s mission to extract and supply helium-3 for terrestrial use has garnered interest from various industries, including quantum technology and energy. The company’s first moon mission, in collaboration with Astrolab, aims to launch a multispectral camera to prospect for helium-3 on the lunar surface.
