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The U.S. Space Force is examining asteroid mining technologies for their potential to address technical challenges in deep space operations. Maj.

Gen. Stephen Purdy noted the relevance of these technologies in navigating and detecting objects in cislunar space. Companies like California-based AstroForge are developing spacecraft for asteroid resource extraction.

Despite challenges in previous missions, AstroForge plans a third attempt in 2026. The Space Force is also monitoring developments in commercial space stations and in-space nuclear power systems.