In March, a crypto company announced a unique treasure hunt—with the prize hidden not on Earth, but on the moon. LunarCrush plans to send a rover over 200,000 miles to the lunar surface, carrying a private key that unlocks 62 Bitcoin, worth approximately $2 million. The first person to locate the rover can claim the digital fortune.
While this might sound like an extravagant publicity stunt, it reflects a broader, more serious trend: the growing convergence of cryptocurrency and space technology. A number of innovative companies are exploring how blockchain can enhance operations beyond our atmosphere—and how space can, in turn, make blockchain more secure and accessible.
Why Space? The Two-Way Relationship Between Crypto and the Cosmos
According to Yan Michalevsky, cofounder of Cryptosat, the relationship between blockchain and space can be divided into two categories: “blockchain for space” and “space for blockchain.” The first involves using decentralized technology to improve space infrastructure, while the second uses the unique properties of space—like isolation and remoteness—to strengthen blockchain networks.
This isn’t just theoretical. Startups like Cryptosat, SpaceChain, and Blockstream are already deploying hardware and software beyond Earth’s orbit. Their projects range from space-based wallets and satellites that broadcast blockchain data to nodes that help secure inter-satellite communications.
Space for Blockchain: Enhancing Security from Orbit
One of the most promising applications of space for blockchain is enhanced security. By placing critical infrastructure—such as cryptographic keys or consensus nodes—in space, companies can create air gaps that are nearly impossible for hackers to breach.
Cryptosat’s Satellite Safeguards
Cryptosat, founded by Stanford graduates Yan Michalevsky and Yonatan Winetraub, has already launched two small satellites into orbit. Each is equipped with a compact computer capable of performing basic cryptographic functions.
“Since these devices can’t be physically accessed,” explains Michalevsky, “they offer protection against highly sophisticated cyber attacks—something increasingly relevant in the blockchain and Web3 space.”
Although using space for security may seem excessive to the average person, it provides significant value for institutions handling high-value transactions or sensitive data.
SpaceChain’s Orbital Nodes
SpaceChain, cofounded by early Bitcoin developer Jeff Garzik, takes a similar approach. The company has placed multiple nodes—small computers that help operate blockchain networks—on satellites and even on the International Space Station.
CEO Cliff Beek highlights the security benefits: “A node in space is isolated from terrestrial infrastructure. Unauthorized access becomes extremely difficult when the device is traveling at 17,000 miles per hour.”
The company’s nodes are surprisingly compact, weighing only 100 grams and measuring about eight inches square.
Blockstream’ Satellite Broadcasts
Blockstream, led by cypherpunk pioneer Adam Back, is leveraging space to improve accessibility rather than security. The company leases satellites to broadcast the Bitcoin blockchain across the globe.
Back notes that in many regions, high-speed internet is either unavailable or unaffordable. A satellite dish, by comparison, is a low-cost alternative. With one, anyone can receive Bitcoin’s entire transaction history—democratizing access to the network.
Blockstream is currently working on upgrading its satellites to support two-way communication, which would allow them to both transmit and receive blockchain data.
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Blockchain for Space: Improving Extra-Terrestrial Operations
While space can reinforce blockchain networks, the reverse is also true. Distributed ledger technology can bring transparency, reliability, and tamper-resistance to space-based systems—from scientific research to national security.
Storing Messages from Beyond
In May, the SETI Institute (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) announced a partnership with Protocol Labs, the team behind Filecoin. The goal: to use decentralized storage for potential messages from extraterrestrial intelligence.
SETI researchers argue that such a discovery would be among the most important in human history—and must be preserved without censorship or manipulation. Filecoin’s decentralized architecture makes it an ideal solution.
“We need to ensure that this data remains open and untampered with,” said Jennifer Bell of Protocol Labs.
Inter-Satellite Communications and National Security
The same principles apply to satellite networks. Defense contractor Lockheed Martin is exploring the use of Filecoin and the Interplanetary File System (IPFS) to secure communications between satellites.
In the competitive realm of space, trust is scarce. Blockchain can provide a verifiable, neutral layer for data transmission—whether between satellites in orbit or future bases on the moon and Mars.
“IPFS was designed for interplanetary use from day one,” noted Anshuman Prasad of Protocol Labs. “As space travel advances, decentralized systems will play a critical role.”
What’s Next: Upcoming Launches and Missions
Several of the companies mentioned are planning new missions before the end of the year:
- Lockheed Martin will launch its LM 400 spacecraft carrying IPFS nodes.
- Cryptosat aims to send a third satellite into orbit.
- SpaceChain is preparing another node deployment.
These efforts may be small in number, but they signal a lasting commitment to merging two of the most innovative fields in technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a space-based blockchain node?
A space-based node is a small computer placed on a satellite or space station that participates in a blockchain network. Its physical isolation makes it highly resistant to hacking.
How can blockchain technology be used in space?
Blockchain can secure satellite communications, store scientific data immutably, and even help manage space-based supply chains or tokenized assets.
Is sending blockchain hardware to space cost-effective?
For high-security applications and global accessibility projects, the long-term benefits often justify the initial investment. Companies and governments are increasingly willing to explore these opportunities.
Can individuals participate in space-based crypto projects?
Most current projects are institutional, but some—like LunarCrush’s treasure hunt—are designed for public engagement. As technology evolves, more opportunities may arise.
What are the biggest challenges?
Regulatory uncertainty, launch costs, and technical reliability are major hurdles. However, advances in aerospace and blockchain are gradually reducing these barriers.
Will we see a fully decentralized satellite network?
It’s a longer-term goal for many in the industry. Success will depend on partnerships between aerospace firms, blockchain developers, and regulatory bodies.
The merging of blockchain and space is more than a gimmick—it’s a logical next step in the evolution of both industries. From securing digital assets with orbital nodes to enabling open access to space data, these technologies are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on—and off—our planet.