The outdoor space is known for its harsh conditions and lack of branding, yet it could change thanks to the Canadian startup’s plans to launch advertising in space. The company, Geometric Energy Corporation (GEC), has designed a satellite capable of running images on a pixelated display, which will be launched by SpaceX next year.
In an interview with Business Insider, GEC co-founder Samuel Reid explained that ads would appear next to a small, cube-shaped satellite known as CubeSat. Those who wish to purchase advertising space must purchase tokens to claim, identify, and design a specific pixel on their display. Five different types of tokens are available, one of which determines the X coordinate of the pixel and the other determines the Y coordinate. The other two allow buyers to control the color and brightness of their pixels, while the final token determines how long the ad will last.
Once in orbit, a selfie-stick display will be used to film and stream live on YouTube or Twitch, allowing all Earthlings to tune in to a satellite-hosted ad marathon. Although the value of these tokens has not yet been announced, Reed confirmed that the company will only accept cryptocurrencies in exchange for advertising space – which he said would “help democratize and decentralized participation in space.”
CubeSats are small, lightweight satellites that can be used for a variety of purposes, often traveling in orbit on rocket with extra space. The CubeSat, designed by GEC, is set to piggyback on SpaceX’s Falcon R rocket as it paves the way to the moon next year. While the idea is likely to appeal to businesses willing to enter unique advertising channels, Reed says artists and other people with other commercial interests can also buy the Pixel.
“There may be some companies that want to display their logo … or it may be a bit personal and artistic,” he explained. “Hopefully, people won’t waste money on anything inappropriate, insulting or offensive.” SpaceX plans to launch a Canadian ad-beaming satellite into space that will eventually accept payments to Dogecoin, according to a media report.
