Spotlight on Young Researchers: Adapting Earth technologies to function on the Moon

Describing his research in one sentence

“I am working on turning Moon dust into oxygen and metals using a more energy-efficient process that could help us live and work on the Moon without relying on constant supplies from Earth.”

On his research, peer to peer

“The electrochemical reduction of lunar regolith in molten salts offers a promising route for oxygen and metal extraction on the Moon. My research focuses on identifying and testing low-temperature salt electrolytes that can reduce all major metal cations in the regolith without causing bath poisoning. Lower operating temperatures reduce energy demands and thermal stress on components, improving system longevity. Experimental work includes electrochemical characterization and electrolysis of lunar regolith simulants to evaluate performance and process efficiency.”

Thoughts on working with industry

“In my experience, industry offers a more goal-oriented environment, where milestones and deliverables are reached more quickly. However, this often leaves less room for exploring fundamental research questions in depth. I’ve also found that industry brings together a broader range of professional expertise, which can really benefit a project from multiple angles. Academia, on the other hand, tends to offer deeper, more focused knowledge in specific topics. This can be crucial when tackling technical challenges or overcoming roadblocks in practical research.”

How research benefits from collaborating with industry and vice versa

“Both environments have unique strengths, and working together allows for a more impactful approach to research. When the objectives of both sides are aligned, collaborations between industry and public research can be highly efficient and effective. For industry, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, these partnerships offer access to fundamental knowledge, specialized expertise, and facilities that may not be available in-house, including advanced analytical tools and state-of-the-art laboratories. Academia, in turn, benefits from the goal-oriented mindset of industry, often allowing to translate their research into practical and real-world applications.”

How his academia-industry collaboration looks in practice

“My project, ESPLORE, is a collaboration between TU Munich (Germany) and Maana Electric SA (Luxembourg). In practice, I spend most of my time at Maana’s headquarters in Luxembourg, with occasional short stays in Munich depending on project or training needs. Maana is a small and dynamic company of around 30 people, combining researchers and engineers from diverse backgrounds in applied research. I work closely with my mentor at the company, Dr. Mateusz Donten, who guides me on both scientific and industrial aspects. I also stay connected with my research group at TUM, where I previously worked. They continue to support me and offer opportunities to stay involved with the younger generation, for example by giving guest lectures or supervising student theses related to my work.”

What draws him to research

“I’m drawn to research that isn’t just about curiosity but about solving real-world challenges. Working on technologies that could support human life on the Moon gives it a clear purpose. Contributing, even in a small way, to that goal helps me stay motivated, even when I hit the inevitable setbacks that come with research.”

Why he chose Luxembourg for his project

“The field of ISRU and space exploration is still quite niche in Europe, but Luxembourg has made significant investments to support it, building a strong ecosystem of research institutions and commercial ventures working on it. As I was finishing university, I knew I wanted to stay in Europe and continue developing my career in this field. I also felt that transitioning into industry was the right next step, but I didn’t want to lose touch with academia or stop growing as a researcher. Luxembourg, through the FNR Industrial Fellowship scheme, offered the perfect combination of both worlds. It was a great match for my goals.”