Helium-3 on the Moon: What It Is and Why It Matters

In the coming years, interest in building a steady supply of helium-3 could intensify significantly. This rare isotope has valuable uses in quantum computing and nuclear fusion, making it a highly sought-after resource. However, most of the helium-3 available today comes from a tightly regulated source: the decay of tritium, a hydrogen isotope found inside nuclear weapons. This limited and controlled supply chain has prompted researchers to look elsewhere for a more abundant and accessible source.