Astrotech Corporation (NASDAQ: ASTC) announced its board of directors approved a strategic initiative focused on lunar resource development and infrastructure for potential Moon-based semiconductor and quantum computing manufacturing.

The Austin-based science and technology development company said the initiative aims to position the firm to evaluate opportunities associated with NASA's Artemis Program and the Commercial Lunar Payload Services program.

The company plans to focus on four lunar resource categories: silicon and ultra-pure silicon-28 for semiconductor and quantum computing applications, helium-3 for quantum cooling systems, platinum group metals for industrial applications, and water ice for propellant production.

Astrotech intends to evaluate infrastructure technologies that could support semiconductor processing, computing systems, and quantum computing manufacturing on the lunar surface. The company cited the Moon's solar energy, thermal conditions, reduced gravity, and access to materials like silicon-28 and helium-3 as potential advantages.

"Quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and advanced semiconductor manufacturing are rapidly becoming strategic national security and economic priorities," said Tom Pickens, chairman and chief executive officer. "We believe the Moon may offer unique long-term value from regolith mining, quantum computing solutions, and autonomous manufacturing infrastructure."

The company plans to pursue technologies supporting lunar industrial infrastructure, including autonomous excavation systems, water extraction systems, and thermal processing facilities.

Astrotech highlighted its spaceflight heritage, including its SPACEHAB platform that supported 24 Space Shuttle and International Space Station missions, and Astrotech Space Operations, which handled more than 250 satellite launch-processing campaigns over two decades.

The lunar initiative remains in early evaluation and development phases, according to the company's statement.