Interlune Secures Funding to Boost Helium-3 Production for Quantum Computing Needs

Interlune Addresses Helium-3 Shortage for Quantum Research

Interlune, a company focused on sustainable resource harvesting, has recently secured a significant funding opportunity aimed at addressing the United States' ongoing helium-3 supply shortage. The firm was selected by AFWERX for an SBIR Direct-to-Phase II contract amounting to $1.25 million. This funding is dedicated to a groundbreaking initiative designed to dramatically increase the production of helium-3, a rare isotope essential for advanced quantum computing technologies.

The demand for helium-3 has surged due to its critical role in cooling superconducting quantum computers, which require temperatures close to absolute zero to function effectively. Interlune's innovative technology is expected to double the current domestic supply of helium-3, which presently stands at a mere one kilogram annually. This shortage has been a matter of concern for the U.S. government since it first recognized the issue in 2010.

Rob Meyerson, co-founder and CEO of Interlune, stated, "Helium-3 makes the world a safer place. Interlune is honored to serve our government and the general public by delivering more of this much-needed isotope on a short timeline." The urgency of this supply boost is also underscored by the Air Force's increasing reliance on helium-3 for various research and development programs.

The framework of the SBIR program has evolved significantly since its inception, allowing for a streamlined proposal and award process. Year by year, the DAF has made strides to reduce bureaucratic overhead, opening the door for small businesses like Interlune to make substantial contributions without the burdens of lengthy contract execution processes. The government is actively seeking various innovations to meet its operational and strategic needs, and the funding for helium-3 extraction is a prime example of this initiative in action.

Currently, helium-3 is not just pivotal for quantum computing but also plays a role in national security efforts, including hazardous material detection at borders and ports. Interlune's plan does not only pertain to the immediate increase in supply; it also envisions harnessing helium-3 from lunar sources in the future, further asserting the company’s commitment to advancing resource acquisition from space.

The new technology being developed under the SBIR contract is set to integrate into an existing U.S. helium liquefaction facility. The goal is to have a system that can efficiently extract helium-3 while minimizing disruption to current operations. This integration will serve as a crucial step toward realizing the full potential of quantum computing technologies, which are transitioning from research and development stages to actual commercial applications. As demand continues to rise, had Interlune's solutions not been in place, the United States could have faced significant limitations in leveraging these advanced technologies.

The impact of this contract aligns with broader national efforts, where the Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate is leading the charge for innovations that enhance national defense capabilities. Recently, Interlune also engaged in a collaboration with Bluefors, a leader in cryogenic cooling systems, to supply over $300 million worth of helium-3, priced at approximately $20 million per kilogram in the current market.

This ambitious funding and operational objective signify an optimistic era for helium-3 availability, not only for quantum computing advancements but also for future explorations of clean fusion energy and improved medical imaging technologies. With a strong foundation already established, Interlune is set to make substantial strides towards not only meeting the national demand but potentially reshaping the industry standards for helium-3 production and utilization. As they move forward, their pioneering efforts could be instrumental in establishing a robust in-space economy centered around sustainable resource extraction.

In closing, as Interlune forges ahead with innovative technology and strategic collaborations, it echoes a broader message of resilience and ingenuity within the defense and technological sectors. "Helium-3 is more than just a resource; it is a key ingredient in creating a safer future," Meyerson concluded, emphasizing the potential of this isotope to transform not only military applications but also everyday technological innovations.