AstroForge is planning a flyby mission of the 2022-OB5, a metallic asteroid, as part of its prospecting strategy. While the team behind AstroForge has garnered support and interest from investors, challenges in the space mining industry remain significant, particularly regarding economic viability and market competition for materials. Some industry insiders believe that while there will be difficulties, successful orbital mining could lead to advances in technology and material availability that might transform humanity's future in space exploration and habitation. Conversations amongst commenters suggest a mix of skepticism and optimism regarding the feasibility and profitability of asteroid mining, with substantial debate about the long-term impacts on industries on Earth. The discussion further explores potential technological and engineering hurdles involved in establishing mining operations in space.