TL;DR: KREEP terrains on the Moon contain elevated REE concentrations. 2025 USGS report detailed REE distribution. While lower grade than terrestrial deposits, absence of environmental regulations could make
KREEP terrains on the Moon contain elevated REE concentrations. 2025 USGS report detailed REE distribution. While lower grade than terrestrial deposits, absence of environmental regulations could make extraction viable.
Resource Type
Rare Earth Elements
Location
Lunar KREEP terrain (Mare Imbrium region, Oceanus Procellarum)
Estimated Quantity
Significant but poorly quantified
Extraction Method
Acid leaching or molten salt electrolysis of KREEP-rich regolith
Economic Value
High if terrestrial supply constrained; REEs worth $100-1000/kg