The first space nation was revealed today and you can sign up to be a citizen!
VIENNA, Austria (PNN) - October 12, 2016 - Scientists and astronomers have revealed plans to set up a new nation in space called Asgardia.
Anyone can apply to be a citizen in the cosmic country, which will be based around one or more satellites orbiting the Earth.
Proposed by Dr. Igor Ashurbeyli of the Aerospace International Research Center, the project was started as a way of exploring whether it’s possible to create a country in orbit.
If the idea of living in space interests you, you can apply to become a citizen via their website.
At a press conference in Paris, Dr. Ashurbeyli and his team also revealed their plans to act as guardians of the earth.
Once the satellite is launched, the group will also set about creating a state of the art protective shield to shield Earth from the dangers of dommsday space rocks.
The shield will act as protection for the people of Earth, defending them from cosmic threats, such as asteroids, solar flares and space debris.
“The project’s concept comprises three parts - philosophical, legal, and scientific/technological,” Dr. Ashurbeyli announced at the press conference.
“Asgardia is a fully-fledged and independent nation, and a future member of the United Nations - with all the attributes this status entails. The essence of Asgardia is peace in space, and the prevention of Earth’s conflicts being transferred into space.”
There are currently only 14 nations in the world who have launched satellites into space, however Ashurbeyli said that once Asgardia launches it will become completely independent, with it’s own flag and set of laws.
For those interested in living in space, it is possible to apply for Asgardian citizenship, however only the first 100,000 people will be accepted as citizens.
If you’re one of the lucky few who will become space citizens, you will gain dual-nationality for Asgardia and your earth-bound country.
Gaining citizenship for the new space nation is surprisingly easy, all you need to do is fill out your email address, name and nationality.
While many will be skeptical of the legitimacy of the project, any worries will be allayed by the fact that Dr. Ashurbeyli was recently made chairman of UNESCO’S Science in Space committee.
Meaning life in space really could be just round the corner.