Planetary Resources Development Corporation

Chris Lewicki

Chris Voorhees

Eric Anderson

Peter H Diamandis

Peter Illsley

Hannah Goldberg

Ray Ramadorai

A multi-functional optical subsystem for a spacecraft includes a laser diode module having output optics; an imaging and communication detector assembly; and a forward metering structure. The multi-functional optical subsystem is adapted for laser-based optical communication and attitude determination. According to embodiments, the subsystem fits within a small satellite having less than about 20 kg mass and less than about 10,000 cm3 total volume.

Dual use imaging and optical communications system for microsatellites

A method is provided for processing extraterrestrial metal into a metal foam or gossamer structure in space, and delivering the metal foam or gossamer structure intact to the Earth's surface. Additionally, a structure is provided that is formed in space and consists essentially of an extraterrestrial metal.

Space-based structures and methods of delivering space-sourced materials

Spacecraft system

A method of prospecting asteroids for mining includes (a) launching at least one spacecraft, the spacecraft including a space telescope; (b) examining a plurality of asteroids using the space telescope to gather scientific data on the asteroids for characterization and cataloging; and (c) selecting one or more asteroids to mine from the plurality of asteroids examined by the space telescope and contained within the catalog. A system for prospecting asteroids for mining is also described.

Method, apparatus, and system for asteroid prospecting and mining

Growing community of inventors

Bellevue, WA, United States of America

Chris Lewicki