China Makes Major Advancements in Space Mining Technologies

China is making significant strides in space mining technologies, with a focus on extracting resources from asteroids and other minor planets.
Published on January 31, 2026 

Written by Lydia Amazouz

China is accelerating its efforts in space exploration by enhancing research into space mining technologies. This move is part of the country’s broader plan to explore and harness the potential of resources from asteroids and other minor planets.

China’s Ambitious Vision for Space Mining

The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) has outlined its clear objective of intensifying space resource development. As part of this mission, CASC is focusing heavily on technologies that will allow for the surveying and extraction of materials from asteroids and other minor celestial bodies. While space mining offers significant promise, it also presents complex challenges that must be overcome. According to CGTN,these include the weak gravity and unpredictable surfaces of asteroids, which pose difficulties for traditional mining methods. Researchers are exploring robotic technologies designed specifically for these extreme conditions to ensure successful extraction.

Asteroids, in particular, are a key target. These celestial bodies are not only abundant in resources but also offer materials like platinum, gold, and other valuable metals. The future potential of mining asteroids could transform industries back on Earth, providing access to rare resources that are becoming increasingly difficult to find on our planet. However, the task is far from simple. Specially designed robotic systems are necessary to tackle the challenges posed by low gravity, vast distances, and harsh environmental factors in space. These robots need to be capable of operating in near-weightless conditions, enduring extreme temperatures, and withstanding radiation, which makes them essential to any successful space mining mission.

Innovative Robotics for Space Mining: The Game-Changer

A key element in China’s space mining effort is the development of a unique robotic system created by researchers at China University of Mining and Technology. This robot, designed to operate in the weightless environment of space, represents a significant technological leap forward. It features a six-legged design, with three legs equipped with claws and the other three with wheels. The claws are particularly important for gripping the surfaces of asteroids, which are often rocky or unstable. With each claw able to generate up to 200 newtons of holding force, the combined effort of all three claws can achieve up to 600 newtons of force, ideal for securing the robot to an asteroid’s surface while collecting samples.

This robot’s ability to adapt to different types of terrain is crucial. In areas where the surface is smooth, the wheeled legs allow for faster movement. This versatility makes the robot highly effective for a range of environments on asteroids. In addition, the robot is powered by electricity, with researchers exploring ways to generate and store energy using local resources, which could provide the robot and other equipment with the energy they need to function during extended missions.

Such robots are central to overcoming the challenges of space mining. Beyond just navigating the terrain, the robot must also handle the complexities of collecting and processing materials in an environment where traditional mining equipment simply cannot function.

The Growing Importance of Space Resources

China’s research into space mining is not just about technology; it’s also about the potential economic impact of space resources. As part of their broader space exploration initiatives, China aims to develop technologies that can tap into resources that are abundant in space but scarce on Earth. One of the most significant examples of such materials is helium-3, a rare isotope that is seen as a potential fuel for future nuclear fusion reactors. Helium-3, which is present in lunar soil, has the potential to revolutionize energy production on Earth, providing a virtually limitless source of clean energy.

Beyond helium-3, other valuable metals like platinum, gold, and nickel are abundant in certain asteroids. These resources could help solve Earth’s growing demands for these materials, especially as supplies on Earth continue to dwindle. As these materials are extracted from asteroids and other space bodies, they could play a significant role in the global economy, potentially even surpassing traditional mining industries on Earth.

While the technologies to access these resources are still in their early stages, the long-term possibilities are immense. As space mining becomes more feasible, countries like China are positioning themselves to become key players in this emerging industry. With continued research and innovation, space could become a new frontier for resource extraction that rivals anything currently found on Earth.

China’s Space Missions: Paving the Way for Future Space Mining

China’s focus on space mining aligns with its broader space exploration agenda. In May 2025, the country launched its first asteroid exploration mission, the Tianwen-2 probe. This mission aims to reach the near-Earth asteroid 2016 HO3, where it will collect over 100 grams of samples. These samples will help scientists understand the composition of asteroids and provide valuable data on how to best mine these bodies in the future.

After completing this mission, the Tianwen-2 probe will embark on an ambitious seven-year journey to study a main-belt comet, 311P, up close. By gaining a better understanding of these celestial bodies, China hopes to lay the groundwork for future mining operations. These missions are crucial for both scientific discovery and the development of technologies that will be needed to mine asteroids and other space resources.