Blockchain has many advantages and numerous applications in various fields of activity. Blockchain technology is now used for space exploration. Both NASA and ESA are researching methods to use Blockchain in their missions. Current research results show that this technology is useful both on the ground, but also in space, helping to navigate deep space.

 

NASA and their involvement in space exploration

NASA is responsible for the United States space program and both civil and military aerospace research. This year, the agency awarded a substantial grant for the development of an automatic spacecraft. The spacecraft will make decisions without the need for human intervention, by using Blockchain technology. By developing a method for the ship to be maneuvered automatically, any human error will be avoided in the case of space debris.

Jin Wei Kocsis is an assistant professor in electrical engineering and computer science at the University of Akron, Ohio. Kocsis received the $330,000 scholarship from NASA to complete her research. More precisely, she will examine the application of Ethereum’s Blockchain in developing a secure computing system to be used in space.

ESA – NASA’s counterpart in the European Union

The European Space Agency also studies Blockchain with the purpose of streamlining internal processes. Last fall, ESA submitted a report entitled “Distributed Ledger Technology: Leveraging Blockchain for ESA’s Success”. The report focuses on the potential benefits that Blockchain could bring to ESA. Among these benefits, ESA mentiones the use of smart contracts in logistics, faster and more accurate payments and real-time access to data changes.

Private players

As technology develops, space exploration is no longer exclusive to governmental institutions. Thus, several companies hope to make their mark in outer space. Space Decentral is a Singapore-based start-up. The US and Russia remain pioneers of space, of utmost importance in space exploration. Nevertheless,  they believe that the cosmos also offers opportunities for private actors. Nexus, a start-up in Arizona, also works on developing a satellite network in partnership with Vector Space Systems. Their mission is to provide global access to cryptocurrency and internet through the Blockchain network.

Source: https://cointelegraph.com/news/here-is-how-blockchain-will-help-to-explore-space