Preheating Module

The Preheating Module prepares regolith for ISRU processing by elevating its temperature within a sealed environment inside the MDC system. It can utilize concentrated solar energy captured through Fresnel lenses or conventional electric heating methods, offering operational flexibility. By heating regolith before it reaches oxygen extraction units, water extraction systems, or construction modules, the Preheating Module significantly improves energy efficiency and enhances overall resource yield. It also supports early volatile extraction and sulfur removal, critical for clean oxygen production and effective downstream processing, making it an essential component of lunar preconditioning systems.

• Uses electricity or Fresnel lens solar concentrators.

• Removes volatiles and contaminants like sulfur.

• Supplies pre-heated regolith for oxygen extraction or sintering.