Astronomers have estimated that one of two metallic asteroids floating in our planet’s vicinity might feature precious metals worth around $11.65 trillion. These space rocks could have more iron, nickel, and cobalt than Earth’s global metal reserves.
Referred to as metal-rich near-Earth asteroids, these rare mineral deposits could be over a mile wide. The one believed to be abundant with metal is named 1986 DA, and the other 2016 ED85. The duo “could be possible targets for asteroid mining in the future,” as per the new analysis published in the journal The Planetary Science Journal.
Resourceful for future lunar and Mars missions
Space mining has seen many scientists showing interest, as the experts believe the feat could offer cost-effective metals for a lunar or Mars-based colony, which will eventually extend humanity’s reach in exploring the universe.
The team behind the calculation suggests these asteroids might offer much-needed insights on the authenticity of another metallic treasure NASA is aiming to reach in 2022 – the mysterious shiny space globe called 16 Psyche.
The space body is said to have hills and valleys made of pure metal. Astronomers suggest it’s the remaining core of an ancient rocky planet that got destroyed. The bizarre body has been a topic of debate among scientists and it’s expected to hold minerals worth $10,000 quadrillion.
Closer bodies could reveal mysteries of distant ones
However, 16 Psyche has generated a lot of doubt as well, because scientists can’t be sure what it is made of until a spacecraft goes and observes it. It’s too far for precise spectrum analysis, a method where electromagnetic emission and absorption signals are seen to determine the object’s compositions.
Until such an observation can be done, something the space agency aims to do, researchers have to consider the option that it’s just some kind of rubble. This is what makes the closer space rocks indispensable as they might provide a first look at their namesake’s features. Proximity to Earth makes it easier for astronomers to capture the asteroids’ spectral info.
“It is rewarding that we have discovered these ‘mini Psyches’ so close to the Earth,” said Vishnu Reddy, principal investigator of the NASA grant that funded the work.
