Jan Wörner, ESA Director General interviewed during the Farnborough International Airshow 2018, describes the main features of the Metalysis-ESA Grand Challenge. He highlights the importance of in-situ resource utilisation for future exploration of deep space and the impact this could have on the creation of a robust space economy.

During the interview he was asked these questions:

• Can you tell us about ESA’s viewpoint on ISRU and why it is a critical area of development for enabling long-term lunar settlements?
• How does the Metalysis-ESA Grand Challenge tie in with that?
• Does this benefit from the private sector ‘space race’ as an increasing number of new companies ‘look up’ for opportunities and inspiration?
• Is ESA’s partnership with Metalysis an example of the seamless chain of cross-sectoral industrial innovation you talk about?