Interworld Slingshot: Exploring a new way to find resources in space

A team led by SETI Institute research scientist Pablo Sobron is testing whether Raman spectroscopy—already used in planetary exploration—can be used from orbit or during fast flybys to identify minerals, water, and other materials. The project, called Interworld Slingshot Resource Surveys, aims to answer key questions about space resources without requiring landing or bringing samples back to Earth. The team is exploring whether Raman spectroscopy can provide an affordable way to map potential resource locations before committing to costly landings. The study will focus on measuring materials from distances up to 30 to 50 kilometers, using a small spacecraft with a remote-sensing tool.

The project team is facing challenges in detecting faint Raman signals, which are only about one photon in 10 trillion. Current tests have reached about 120 meters, but the goal is to make measurements from much farther away. The Phase I study will test whether the idea is physically and technically possible, focusing on photon budgets, spacecraft paths, propulsion systems, and sensitive single-photon detectors. The study aims to determine if enough photons can be delivered to a meter-sized spot to generate a Raman effect and collect sufficient data to measure composition.

The goal is not to create a final map with economic values, but to identify promising exploration targets and put an "X" on the map to show future missions where to take a closer look. The study could help in more ways than just mining, by reducing the need for extra equipment and supplies on asteroids, the moon, or Mars. It could also help avoid landing in places with few resources. The Phase I study will first check whether the idea is physically and technically possible, and whether it can be done with current parts and technologies or if new technologies are needed. The project brings together experts from the SETI Institute, NASA, and OffWorld to explore the feasibility of this new approach.

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