Space Research at UCF: Anna Metke

Exolith Lab – Developing the World’s Largest ISRU Center

On its path to expansion, humanity has been increasing its presence in space over the last few decades. With a global focus on establishing permanent infrastructures on the moon as well as in orbit, we’re now facing the reality that space travel needs to become more sustainable. To support these long-duration missions, we need to utilize extraterrestrial resources to develop an environment that allows us to further our expansion into space. Exolith Lab began as an initiative to provide tools for testing and validation of space-based exploration and in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) hardware. By providing high-fidelity regolith simulants, Exolith Lab has been able to play a key role in ISRU studies globally. Exolith Lab has developed to not only support planetary science research all over the world, but to also host a spectrum of research projects here at UCF while developing the world’s largest ISRU testing center.

About the Presenter

Anna Metke is the Director of Operations at Exolith Lab where she facilitates the development of simulated space resources. She focuses on building her career to aid the development of a Sustainable Space Economy. Anna’s background includes 10 years of experience working in business management and 6 years of experience in scientific research. Anna has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. She began her journey specializing in space resources with Deep Space Industries where she aided in simulant production and business development. Anna joined the Exolith Lab team when Deep Space Industries incorporated into UCF. With a passion for science, art, and leadership, she has spent several years participating in science organizations and STEAM outreach programs to encourage young enthusiasts. When she is not at the lab, Anna enjoys travel, aerial dancing, and dragon boat racing.