United Launch Alliance (ULA) CEO Tory Bruno and his wife Rebecca are set to make history as their DNA is sent into space on the first-ever mission for the Vulcan Centaur rocket. This unique endeavor is being carried out by Celestis Inc., a leading memorial space burial company, and will also include the DNA of other individuals, as well as cremated remains and files.
One of the most notable aspects of this mission is the inclusion of several “Star Trek” luminaries. Among the individuals whose DNA will be sent into space are Nichelle Nichols, DeForest Kelley, James Doohan, Gene Roddenberry, and Majel Barrett Roddenberry. This news has thrilled fans of the iconic series, as it pays homage to the beloved sci-fi franchise.
Named Enterprise after the renowned “Star Trek” ship, the mission will take off from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on December 24th. The Vulcan Centaur rocket represents ULA’s latest and most advanced launch vehicle, making this its maiden spaceflight. This ambitious endeavor is a testament to ULA’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration.
In a truly historic twist, the remains of four former U.S. presidents will also be onboard the mission. The ashes of George Washington, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan will journey alongside the DNA and cremated remains of other participants. This inclusion emphasizes the significance of this mission and its connection to American history.
Tory and Rebecca Bruno, both accomplished rocket scientists, are marking their 38th wedding anniversary with this milestone venture. Their passion for space exploration and their own personal journey infuse this mission with an added layer of significance.
Apart from the memorial payload, the Vulcan Centaur rocket will also carry Astrobotic’s Peregrine moon lander. This state-of-the-art spacecraft will play a crucial role in furthering lunar exploration and research.
Once the upper stage of the rocket completes its mission, it will assume a heliocentric orbit and be rebranded as Enterprise Station. This symbolic renaming reflects the enduring legacy of the “Star Trek” franchise and its impact on space exploration as a whole.
The launch of the Vulcan Centaur rocket with the DNA of Tory and Rebecca Bruno, the remains of former U.S. presidents, and the tribute to “Star Trek” luminaries is a remarkable event in the realm of space exploration. It showcases the fusion of science, history, and pop culture, capturing the imagination of people around the world. Stay tuned for more updates as this pioneering mission unfolds in the vastness of space.
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