SpaceX has pushed back the planned DOGE-1 lunar mission that was fully paid for in Dogecoin cryptocurrency. The mission was originally supposed to launch in 2022 but has been delayed due to technical issues with the DOGE-1 satellite built by Geometric Energy Corporation (GEC).
GEC CEO Samuel Reid said they used Dogecoin to pay SpaceX a rebooking fee to secure a new launch date for DOGE-1. The satellite was not ready in time for SpaceX’s Intuitive Machines IM-1 mission, so DOGE-1 will now potentially launch after IM-1, depending on when the satellite is shipped from the UK to the US.
Despite the delay, Reid remains positive about DOGE-1, saying the postponement was due to incomplete radio and satellite requirements rather than lack of commitment. He wants to reassure supporters that the mission is still happening.
When first announced in 2021, DOGE-1 was hailed as a pioneering use of cryptocurrency beyond Earth. By accepting Dogecoin as payment, SpaceX aimed to establish a foundation for commerce in space. The delay of DOGE-1 does not change this long-term goal.
