The lunar regolith contains helium-3, deposited by the solar wind. He-3 is scarce on Earth but could fuel future fusion reactors. Concentrations vary by region, particularly in maria. Mining techniques are being theorized. He-3 extraction could support lunar bases or Earth energy. It’s a clean fusion candidate. Lunar soil holds millions of tons of this isotope.
The fact matters for long-term energy solutions.
It also impacts economic interest in lunar resource utilization. Helium-3 mining could influence geopolitical strategies.
One cubic meter of lunar soil can contain enough helium-3 to generate electricity for decades.
NASA [nasa.gov]