Everything Made of Everything: The Origins and Availability of Materials
When we consider whether everything is made of everything, the answer largely depends on our perspective. This essay delves into the origins and availability of materials, exploring the extent to which everything is made from celestial materials and Earthly resources.
The Origins of Materials on Earth
Earth is not a source of its own materials. The periodic table shows that elements like Helium and Iron are created through fusion in the cores of stars. For elements above Iron, such as those produced by supernova explosions, neutron star collisions, or similar celestial events, the origins of matter trace back beyond Earth.
For argument's sake, let’s ignore the original origins of these materials. Even then, most of what we commonly use is not exclusively sourced from Earth. Meteorites, for instance, have contributed significantly to our metal supply, with meteoric iron being used for blades and jewelry throughout history. Watches, pens, and sculptures have also featured meteoric materials for their unique properties.
Material Availability and Cost
The limited availability of certain materials makes them expensive. This scarcity often leads to the use of alternative materials that are just as beautiful but more readily accessible. However, these materials may not be as visually striking or historically valuable. The choice of what to use in construction, manufacturing, and design is often driven by availability and cost.
Looking Beyond Earth: The Future of Space Mining
While Earth remains our primary source of materials, the potential for harvesting resources from space is gaining momentum. In 2015, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the U.S. Commercial Space Launch Competitiveness Act, giving U.S. companies the right to own and exploit natural resources found in space. Although the costs of extracting materials from space still exceed those on Earth, rare or difficult-to-obtain resources might incentivize space mining.
The idea of space mining is not just a concept; it’s being actively pursued. SpaceX, under the leadership of Elon Musk, is at the forefront of this initiative. SpaceX’s Starship, a large reusable spacecraft being developed by SpaceX for transportation to Earth orbit, the Moon, and Mars, could theoretically transport mining equipment to space.
Musk’s companies, such as SpaceX and The Boring Company, are conducting research and development that could potentially pave the way for space mining. While it’s unclear if The Boring Company’s machinery can fit into the Starship, the possibility exists. Musk’s broader goal is to establish a sustainable presence on Mars, and space mining could be a critical component of achieving this.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while much of what we use is made from Earthly materials, the origins of these materials are often extraterrestrial. The availability and cost of materials, along with the rise of space mining, could lead to a future where we derive resources from beyond our planet. As technology advances, the boundaries of what we consider “everything” will continue to expand.