The Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA) and The Open Network (TON) Foundation have introduced a groundbreaking initiative called Mission Control, aimed at democratizing space access. Through a Telegram-based Mini App, users can now participate in selecting individuals to fly to space aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
The Mission Control project leverages onchain voting on the TON blockchain, allowing global users to have a say in astronaut selection for a future Blue Origin New Shepard mission scheduled for 2026. Out of the six available seats, five are reserved for individuals from countries with limited or no representation in space exploration, such as India, Nigeria, Brazil, Thailand, and Indonesia. The sixth seat is open to the global public, excluding individuals from sanctioned countries.
Applicants can register through the Mission Control Telegram Mini App, where they can engage in challenges to earn “SpaceDust” points to support their preferred candidates. The final selection process will involve a combination of national formats, including online voting and TV shows, tailored to each country.
Max Crown, CEO of the TON Foundation, emphasized the project’s goal of democratizing space and making it more inclusive. Funding for the initiative comes from the TON Foundation, sponsorships, and potential advertising tied to national campaigns. The long-term vision is to expand the model to other countries, promoting open-selection mechanisms for astronaut selection.
To participate in the voting process, users must create a TON wallet within Telegram, promoting Telegram wallet adoption and increasing blockchain participation. Achievements and participation badges will be issued as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on the TON blockchain.
SERA, known as a “space agency for everyone,” aims to provide opportunities for ordinary citizens to engage in space science and potentially become astronauts. In a previous campaign, SERA sent a Brazilian citizen to space in 2022 through a similar NFT-based initiative, turning the participant into a national celebrity.
In related news, Telegram recently launched its self-custodial crypto wallet, TON Wallet, in the United States. The wallet, built on the TON blockchain, enables users to send, receive, and store assets like USDT and Toncoin directly within the Telegram app. Developed by The Open Platform, a tech company specializing in Web3 apps for Telegram, TON Wallet received a significant $28.5 million Series A funding round, reaching a valuation of $1 billion.
The Mission Control project and the launch of TON Wallet in the US signify a significant step towards democratizing access to space and promoting blockchain adoption. As the initiative progresses, it is expected to pave the way for more inclusive and diverse participation in space exploration.