Space colonization remains a fascinating yet challenging endeavor for scientists and engineers. Crucial issues such as the impact of low gravity on the human body and the hazards of cosmic radiation have become subjects of extensive research. In the realm of science, increasingly bold concepts are emerging to address these challenges, and one such idea is the transformation of an asteroid into a functional space station.

David W. Jensen, a retired engineer from Rockwell Collins, advocates in his article on the arXiv platform that, through the use of self-replicating robots, an asteroid could be converted into a habitable environment in just 12 years. The cost of this undertaking? Approximately $4.1 billion – a relatively modest sum considering the scale of the project.

Jensen points to the Atira asteroid as an ideal candidate for his plan. It is a near-Earth object with a diameter of 4.8 km, primarily composed of rock and possessing its smaller satellite measuring about 1 km.

The main innovation involves utilizing the materials of the asteroid to construct the space station. Assuming a toroidal structure, the outer edge of the station would provide protection against radiation and micrometeoroids. Inside, multi-level compartments could accommodate a significant number of people.

A critical technical challenge is adjusting the rotation speed of the asteroid to achieve internal gravity close to Earth's. Atira's current rotation is 3.4 hours. To attain the desired gravity, the asteroid would need to rotate every 105 seconds.

Jensen also assumes that the robots used in this project could be reusable. After completing construction on one asteroid, they could be sent to others to continue their work.

The concept of using asteroids as space stations is not new. As early as 1903, Konstantin Tsiolkovsky formulated a similar idea. Jensen's proposal, however, may represent a milestone toward its realization. As noted by Dr. Elizabeth Howell, a space historian and author: "Jensen's proposal opens promising possibilities for further research and development in this field."

An innovative approach to space colonization using asteroids may prove to be the key to humanity's future expansion beyond Earth. Despite the many technical challenges ahead, the vision of a space station within an asteroid seems to be one step closer to realization.