The US based Space Exploration & Research Agency (SERA) has unveiled a collaborative initiative with Blue Origin aimed at democratizing access to space exploration. This groundbreaking programme seeks to facilitate participation in human spaceflight endeavours for individuals hailing from nations historically underrepresented in space endeavours. The inaugural flight, slated aboard a future Blue Origin New Shepard mission, has already allocated all six seats.
In alignment with the programme’s core mission of inclusivity, five of the available seats are designated for citizens of partner nations with limited or no prior astronautic representation. The remaining seat is open to applicants from any nation, fostering a truly global participation in space exploration. SERA has forged partnerships with National Space Agencies and regional research institutions to bolster mission support and develop scientific experiment payloads for the flight. The selection of astronauts and determination of scientific experiments will be community-driven, emphasizing transparency and collaboration. Further announcements regarding partner nations are anticipated in the coming months.
This endeavour builds upon a precedent-setting collaboration between SERA (formerly CSA) and Blue Origin, exemplified by the ascent of Victor Hespanha, a 28-year-old civil engineer from Minas Gerais, Brazil, who become the second Brazilian in space, eliciting national acclaim. Victor’s selection from the SERA community and subsequent journey aboard Blue Origin’s NS-21 mission on June 4, 2022, underscored the transformative potential of inclusive space exploration initiatives.
Joshua Skurla, Co-Founder of SERA, emphasized the imperative of expanding space accessibility, noting that nearly 150 countries remain unrepresented in human spaceflight endeavours. Skurla articulated the programme’s overarching objective to replicate the inspirational impact of Victor’s voyage on a larger scale, leveraging Blue Origin’s instrumental role in facilitating inclusive space exploration.
Phil Joyce, Senior Vice President of the New Shepard Business Unit at Blue Origin, echoed sentiments of inclusivity, asserting that space exploration should reflect the diverse tapestry of humanity. Joyce underscored the programme’s dual mandate to broaden access to space while inspiring individuals worldwide.
Historically, space exploration has been characterized by exclusivity, with a disproportionate representation of astronauts hailing from a select few countries. Moreover, these nations have wielded significant influence over in-space infrastructure. SERA, driven by its mission to democratize space exploration and foster global engagement in the space sector, was established to rectify this historical disparity.
Sam Hutchison, Co-Founder of SERA, underscored the untapped potential of space exploration and economic development, citing the necessity of ensuring equitable access to emerging opportunities in the off-world economy. With the declining costs of space launches, SERA envisions an era where all inhabitants of Earth can actively participate in the burgeoning space economy.
In summary, the SERA-Blue Origin partnership heralds a new chapter in the democratization of space exploration, driven by principles of inclusivity, collaboration, and equitable access to the cosmos.