Dr. George Sowers, a leading expert in space resources and aerospace engineering, delves into the realm of space mining and the burgeoning space economy. Dr. Sowers emphasizes the potential for automation in mining operations and discusses the current state and projected growth of the space industry. He identifies investment opportunities within Earth's orbit and addresses the role of government in de-risking space mining ventures. Dr. Sowers also reflects on his impactful tenure as Chief Scientist at United Launch Alliance and shares his optimistic vision of a future driven by lunar resources and space-based industries.
Dr. George Sowers explores how space mining—starting with water ice on the Moon—could transform global energy, economics, and the future of humanity.
Dr. George Sowers is a Professor of Practice at the Colorado School of Mines, where he helps lead the world’s first graduate program in space resources. Formerly Chief Scientist and VP of Advanced Programs at United Launch Alliance, he was appointed in 2022 to NASA’s Human Exploration and Operations Committee. He is a leading voice in space logistics, lunar mining, and the economics of off-Earth infrastructure.
“Water equals rocket fuel. If we can extract it from the Moon, we cut the cost of space missions by two-thirds.”
“One asteroid contains more metal than humanity has used in all of history—and could supply us for millions of years.”
“The future of humans is boundless. Space resources are the next great economic revolution after agriculture and industry.”