I think the main obstacle is finding the energy to do this. All of the energy that is accessible to us on Earth comes from the Sun, in one way or another (deep sea critters notwithstanding). If this robot can die, which it would have to for this to be indefinite, then it’s possible (eventually it would run out of iron, technically) if it could recycle old parts.

Ofc, a fossil fueled process is not indefinite, it would have to use a combination of clean energy to get through all the unique challenges of each method.

Honestly, this is kind of a first principles thermodynamics problem that applies to humanity in a similar way, one we are not answering with sustainability in mind… No way around the Laws of Thermo!

“I’m not gonna engage in the theater”

• Proceeds to make it more and more theatrical with every word

I see your sentiment, and don’t entirely disagree, but if it’s at the whim of billionaires, I’d bet there’s no chance it’s because they want to see humanity flourish beyond this planet. And spacex wouldn’t be where it is today without tons of taxpayer subsidies.

Japanese thick white toast