European Space Agency reveals plans to mine the Moon by 2025
European Space Agency has signed a contract with rocket maker ArianeGroup with plans to mine the Moon to extract regolith before 2025. "Regolith is an ore from which it is possible to extract water and oxygen...capable of producing the fuel needed for...distant exploratory missions," ArianeGroup said. Launch vehicle Ariane 64 will be used to carry equipment needed for Moon landing.