Space rocket that could blast us beyond the final frontier

A new rocket thruster could lead to ‘never-ending’ deep-space exploration by converting metals to fuel.

Scientists at the University of Southampton are trialling a propulsion system which uses minerals harvested from asteroids or far-off moons to refill its tanks.

Lead scientist Dr Minkwan Kim claims the tech could help to uncover previously unreachable regions of the universe.

“Spacecraft have limited amounts of fuel because of the enormous cost,” he said.

“But these new thrusters are capable of being powered by any metal that can burn, such as iron, aluminium or copper. Once fitted, spacecraft could land on a comet or moon, rich in these minerals, and harvest what it needs before jetting off with a full tank.”

Dr Kim’s team are working with British-based space firm Magdrive on the propulsion tech, named Super Magdrive, which has been given a £1 million ($AUD 1.9) grant by the Government.

“The system could help us explore new planets, seek out new life, and go where no human has gone before, enabling never-ending discovery,” he added.