Forever young

Despite its age of 12.2 billion years, one of the tens of thousands of stars in the Messier 4 globular cluster has kept its young features. And surprisingly, the star is rich in lithium, one of the most sought-after metals on earth.

Published: 19 April 2013

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Normally, the lithium in stars is destroyed over billions of years but this star has found a way to stay young, either by retaining its original lithium or by creating a fresh supply.

Regenerating lithium should interest mining companies looking into exploration in space. The Moon is the first place where studies are ongoing.

The lithium star in the Scorpius constellation is 7,200 light years away, so travel arrangements for a potential exploration mission should be made promptly.

Sandvik Mining