Experiments on the International Space Station show that bacteria could enhance the removal of rare earth elements from basalt in lunar and Martian landscapes.
Move comes as partner Mitsui & Co said on Monday it planned to sell all of its 22.63% stake in the loss-making mine after posting a 7 billion yen ($67 million) loss from the operation.
The mine, which Kirland gained through its acquisition of Detour Gold early this year, now accounts for more than 40% of the company’s 2020 free cash flow.