"One Albuquerque” Goes to Space

July 18, 2018

A little piece of Albuquerque was onboard the Blue Origin rocket that launched into space on July 18, 2018. You can watch a replay of the Blue Origin Mission 9 launch here: https://www.blueorigin.com/#youtubeNRDhdHRyyjc

A small plaque emblazoned with “One Albuquerque” was included on the Blue Origin rocket in a payload carrying equipment from New Mexico-based company Solstar, which provides internet and communications services in space. Their equipment facilitated the first Tweet from space during the previous Blue Origin launch in April.

CEO of Solstar Brian Barnett invited Mayor Tim Keller to include a memento from Albuquerque in the launch.

“It’s not every day that we get to say we’ve sent Albuquerque to space,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Albuquerque has many great, local companies that are on the cutting-edge, and Solstar is a shining example of the homegrown innovation we want New Mexico to be known for. We chose to send something representing One Albuquerque to symbolize the spirit of unity and collaboration that makes this a great city.”

“I wrote the Solstar business plan at coffee houses all over Albuquerque, and especially in Nob Hill where I’ve lived for over 20 years with my family,” said Brian Barnett, CEO of Solstar. “I am very happy to have had a chance to celebrate our successful WiFi in Space spaceflight with the people of Albuquerque where our roots are. And I appreciate what Mayor Keller and his staff are doing to progress our city.”