First satellite to be launched to build 'space nation'

The first satellite of the Asgardia project to build a nation in space is about to be launched into Earth orbit.

Image of the "space nation" Asgardia. Graphics: Asgardia

Dr.Igor Ashurbeyli, nproject lead scientistAsgardia announced that the first satellite in the satellite system constituting the "space nation" will be launched into orbit in August 2017, according to New Atlas.

Asgardia is an ambitious project, originating from the idea of ​​building a satellite system in Earth orbit large enough to house millions of people. The project hasattract on200,000 subscribers, of which17% are female.

"Last year in Paris, when we launched Asgardia, many people doubted whether we would ever put anything into space," said Dr.Ashurbeylispeakat the press conference on June 12. "But today I can confidently declare that we will launch the satellite.Asgardia-1to space".

SatelliteAsgardia-1measures 10x10x20 cm, weighs 2.8 kg, carries name andimage of citizensAsgardiaFirstly. The first 100,000 subscribers get 300 kb of data, 200 kb for the next 400,000, and 100 kb for the next 1 million.

Concept art for the "space nation" Asgardia depicts a sci-fi-style space paradise with humans living in Earth orbit.

According to Dr.Ashurbeyli, Asgardia-1 is the first step in a giant leap for humanity, laying the foundation for a satellite network capable of protecting Earth from asteroids, solar storms, man-made space debris and other threats.

June 18 has been designated as Asgardia National Unity Day. In addition to the new calendar, Asgardia citizens will begin voting onflag, emblem, anthem and draftThe constitution has been under drafting for the past six months.

Asgardia's draft constitution is said to be a synthesis and conformity of the fundamental aspects of nations.Dr. Ashurbeyli declared himself the head of Asgardia for the first five years before the parliament was formed. HeconfidentThe United Nations will recognize the "space nation" Asgardiain early 2018.

According to VNE