DEEP SPACE EXPLORATION: AN ALTERNATIVE TO MEET FUTURE STRATEGIC MINERALS NEED

For countless years, the exploration of deep space has been a rising interest in the scientific community. The purpose of exploring space is not just for scientific research - scientists can also use the critical data collected to determine if any other planet is habitable by humans. These planets may also harbor other elements and materials that are not currently known to human that can still serve to be useful for humans, particularly the strategic minerals needed to ensure manufacturing of industrial products known to have significant bearing on the US economy and security. The United States Department of Interior (DOI) and the United States Geological Survey (USGS) have already identified 35 strategic minerals and forecasted a dire need to initiate research and exploration of the minerals. At least 12 out of the 35 minerals are regularly needed for things like cell phones, computers, automobiles, airplanes, ships, and many other products that are critical to US economy and their allies. The purpose of this research is to find the answers to questions such as “how long does it take to get to different galaxies?”, “how much fuel would it take?”, “what type of fuel/propellant is the most efficient?”, and many other questions that are imperative to the success of the missions. The use of the official NASA website/database was used as a type of data analysis. During the research phase, authors found that there is an immense amount of radiation that may endanger any humans that may make the trip. It should also be noted that certain steps are being taken to reduce that risk. With this type of research, it may lead to the exploration of different places beyond this galaxy. Furthermore, the supply of critical minerals heavily depends on using the best information. Mining data and mode of transportation involving critical minerals are essential to strengthening domestic supply chains.