Spaced Out is an educational asteroid mining simulation project designed to explore the intersection of space technology, resource extraction, and financial modeling. This browser-based application aims to provide insights into the potential future of space-based mining operations.
- Demonstrate real-world applications of orbital mechanics and spectral analysis
- Model resource extraction techniques in microgravity environments
- Simulate market dynamics for space-derived resources
- Explore scalable cloud architecture for complex simulations
- Asteroid Mapping: Procedurally generate asteroids based on real orbital data
- Mining Simulation: Model optical mining techniques for resource extraction
- Economic Model: Implement dynamic pricing based on supply and demand
- User Interface: Visualize mining operations and market trends
- Select an asteroid from a map based on real astronomical data
- Deploy virtual mining operations to extract resources
- Monitor market fluctuations and sell extracted materials
- Reinvest profits to improve mining efficiency
- Backend: Python (NumPy, Skyfield), Go (performance-critical calculations), FastAPI
- Frontend: Next with D3.js for data visualization
- Hosting: AWS Lambda, S3, RDS/PostgreSQL
- Data Sources: NASA JPL Small-Body Database, London Metal Exchange API
Component | Purpose | Data Source |
---|---|---|
Asteroid Generator | Create realistic asteroid models | NASA JPL orbits |
Mining Simulator | Calculate resource extraction rates | Spectral data |
Market Model | Simulate price dynamics | LME data, Monte Carlo simulations |
Orbital Mechanics | Compute delta-V and trajectories | Skyfield ephemeris |
- Weeks 1-2: Implement asteroid mapping and data retrieval
- Weeks 3-4: Develop mining simulation and resource tracking
- Weeks 5-6: Create economic model and market interface
- Weeks 7-8: Build API layer and integrate components
While Spaced Out uses real astronomical data and economic principles, it is primarily an educational tool and not a precise representation of actual asteroid mining operations. The project simplifies complex concepts for the purpose of learning and exploration.
This project is currently a personal educational endeavor. However, feedback, suggestions, and discussions are welcome through the Issues section.
Remember: My goal is to learn, explore, and have a bit of fun along the way. No actual asteroids were harmed in the making of this simulator.