Blue Origin is now embracing the future of finance by allowing customers to pay for their thrilling New Shepard space adventures with Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, USDT, and USDC.
Recent announcements indicate that this innovative payment option is facilitated through a partnership with Shift4 Payments. Customers are now able to utilize popular wallets such as MetaMask and Coinbase for making their bookings.
This shift allows cryptocurrency enthusiasts the opportunity to purchase their seats on upcoming commercial flights using their digital assets.
Blue Origin’s Leap into Cryptocurrency
As stated in a company press release, payments in various digital currencies are officially enabled for new reservations on the New Shepard spacecraft. This strategic move aligns with the growing trend among retailers to embrace cryptocurrency.
Alex Wilson, Shift4’s Head of Crypto, noted, “The crypto market has expanded to a staggering $4 trillion,” and he believes that using cryptocurrencies and stablecoins for transactions will become increasingly mainstream.
Additionally, PayPal has previously introduced merchant tools for cryptocurrency payments in the U.S., providing context to Blue Origin’s forward-thinking approach.
Implications for Customers and the Space Industry
The inclusion of multiple cryptocurrencies in the payment list aims to provide consumers with greater flexibility. Buyers can effortlessly connect standard wallets to complete their purchases, simplifying the payment process.
However, it is crucial for customers to note that using cryptocurrencies may have tax consequences, varying by jurisdiction. Recent reports revealed that a renowned figure in the crypto realm, Justin Sun, paid $28 million for a New Shepard flight, but the transaction was not executed in cryptocurrency, emphasizing the diverse payment methods among space tourists.
The Broader Cryptocurrency Landscape in Space Business
According to blockchain analyses and reports, SpaceX is believed to hold a total of 8,285 Bitcoin, a staggering figure that’s valued at approximately $996 million, according to multiple data sources.
This figure sheds light on the ongoing comparisons between firms like Blue Origin and others, although Blue Origin has yet to disclose any cryptocurrency assets, and Amazon continues to abstain from accepting crypto payments.
Essentially, this new payment avenue connects an elite consumer service — the chance to experience suborbital flight — with an increasingly recognized payment mechanism.
Featured image courtesy of Meta, chart data from TradingView
