Helium reserves on earth are limited, which could spur makers of MRI machines to look to the moon to fine reserves of this valuable noble gas. The dwindling supply of helium, which is also used in silicon wafer manufacturing, arc welding, and high-energy accelerators and cryogenic applications, is used in MRI magnets.
In addition to helium, the moon is rich in rare earth metals like platinum, according to NASA. Rare earth elements (REEs) are used in touchscreens, motors, batteries, accelerators, lasers, and radiation therapy machines. Since a significant part of the world's REE supply is controlled by China, finding a new source for these resources has become a priority for Western nations.
Mining REEs can also be very destructive to the environment. For example, Berkeley Pit in the United States is one of the most polluted water sources in the world. While Berkeley Pit was created through copper mining, many of the processes used for REE mining can also result in the generation of dangerous pollutants like heavy metals. By harvesting the moon for these resources, any environmental damage would take place in an environment where it wouldn't impact plant or animal life.
