The regolith rocket—A hybrid rocket using lunar resources

The use of lunar hybrid rockets, that connect the Moon surface with a lunar gateway and provide it with resources, are evaluated. Therefore, the composition of lunar regolith and its use for specific rocket subsystems is assessed. In particular, this work evaluates the use of oxygen and aluminum from regolith as oxidant/fuel mixture as well as the use of alloys from regolith for the tanks and fairing of the considered rockets. It shows the advantages of in-situ resource utilization for the rocket development. Further, it depicts the current limitations that arise when developing such a technology. [Display omitted] •Hybrid rockets can benefit from ISRU on the Moon.•Fuel, oxidizer, and support structure can be generated from regolith.•Tanks made of regolith will be too heavy.