Asteroid mining may seem like a concept from science fiction, but AstroForge, a California-based startup, is determined to make it a reality. Founded in 2022 by engineer and CEO Matt Gialich, the company is on a mission to hunt for precious metals in space.
However, Gialich acknowledges the immense challenges ahead, recognizing that success is far from guaranteed.
AstroForge is making history as the first commercial company to receive a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license to transmit from deep space. No private company has previously launched an operational mission beyond the Moon. AstroForge will communicate with Odin using ground stations in India, South Africa, Australia, and the United States.
“We’re the only one that’s actually doing anything,” Gialich stated. “Who else is preparing to go to an asteroid?”
AstroForge Asteroid Mining
Gialich envisions a future where private companies drive down the costs of space travel, making asteroid mining a viable industry. Even if AstroForge does not succeed, he believes the groundwork being laid today will pave the way for future endeavors.
