The US-based Space Exploration Research Institute (Sera) and the Open Network (Ton) Foundation have launched a new telegram-based mini-app that allows users to fly into space on a blue origin rocket.
The initiative, called Mission Control, is part of a broader effort to “democratize” space access by opening up astronaut choices to global users via Onchain votes on the Tonblockchain, according to a Tuesday announcement shared with Cointelegraph.
According to the announcement, Sera has secured all six seats in the future Blue Origin New Shepard Mission, which is scheduled to be released between the first and second quarters of 2026.
Five seats are reserved for individuals from countries that have limited representation in space, i.e. India, Nigeria, Brazil, Thailand, Indonesia. The sixth seat is open to the global population except for those in countries subject to sanctions.
Singapore’s Max Crown at Token 2049 Conference. Source: Cointelegraph
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Ton begins voting on-chain space
Applicants must register via the Mission Control Telegram Mini App, which integrates Onchain voting through the Ton blockchain. Participants can support candidates by completing their assignments and earning in-app points called “Spacedust.”
In an interview with Cointelegraph during the Token2049 conference, Ton Foundation CEO Max Crown revealed that the final selection will be determined by a combination of national formats, including online voting and television shows, depending on the country.
“The idea was essentially to democratize the universe,” Crown said. “Going to space has always been a very elitist, and if you actually count it, I think there will be 300 astronauts or something,” he added.
Funding for the project will be provided by the Ton Foundation along with sponsorships and potential advertising related to the national campaign. The long-term goal is to repeat the model in additional countries using similar open selection mechanisms.
Crown said the initiative is also intended to boost the adoption of telegram wallets and the participation of a wider blockchain. To vote, users must create a ton wallet within the telegram. The outcome and participation badges are issued as TON’s Uneven Tokens (NFTs).
Sera describes herself as a “space agency for all,” and aims to provide the public with the opportunity to become astronauts and participate in space science. Previously, they sent Brazilian citizens into space in 2022 through a similar NFT-based campaign. According to the Crown, the efforts have led participants to become national celebrities.
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Ton Wallet will be released in the US
In July, Telegram deployed Ton Wallet, a crypto wallet that is independent to US users. Built on top of the Ton Blockchain, the wallet allows users to directly send, receive and store assets such as USDT and Toncoins within the Telegram app.
Ton Wallet was developed by The Open Platform, a high-tech company focusing on creating Web3 apps for Telegram. On July 3, the open platform announced a successful $208.5 million Series A funding round, achieving a $1 billion valuation.
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