The world, the universe and us

$1 trillion of platinum on the moon; how your brain distinguishes between reality and imagination; rise of the hyperworm

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Jun 6, 2025
Discover the astonishing $1 trillion worth of platinum hidden on the Moon, raising questions about space mining ethics and challenges. Learn how your brain differentiates reality from imagination, with intriguing implications for conditions like schizophrenia. Dive into the fascinating world of nematodes, where these tiny worms merge to form superorganisms with surprising collective behaviors. Join the conversation about space, cognitive science, and the wonders of nature!
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INSIGHT

Trillion-Dollar Metals on Moon

  • Nearly 6,500 lunar craters were formed by metallic asteroids containing commercial amounts of platinum group metals.
  • This implies the Moon likely holds about $1 trillion worth of platinum and related metals, delivered by asteroid impacts.
INSIGHT

Challenges of Lunar Mining Value

  • The dollar value of lunar platinum is theoretical since mining and transport costs are enormous.
  • Ownership and legal rights in space mining remain unresolved under international treaties.
ADVICE

Benefits of Off-Earth Mining

  • Mining off Earth could reduce environmental damage and CO2 emissions on our planet.
  • Monetizing space resources might encourage private investment that benefits planetary science.
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