Article

A feasibility study led by the Open University is investigating whether pulverised fuel ash (PFA) from the former Aberthaw Power Station can simulate lunar dust for testing technologies intended for the Moon. Funded by the Welsh Government's SMART Flexible Innovation Support programme, the project aims to establish an Earth and Space Innovation Hub at the site.

The study will evaluate the PFA's potential to replicate lunar soil properties and explore material recovery techniques applicable to waste from Wales' industrial past. Planning for the wider redevelopment of Aberthaw is ongoing, with initial demonstration projects expected to commence soon.

The initiative aligns with Wales's growing space sector, which employs over 3,000 people across more than 100 organizations. The collaboration is part of a broader effort to transform Aberthaw into a low-carbon research destination, integrating clean energy, circular economy projects, and space technology.