A team of scientists wants to launch the Nexus One into space and even use the “original Google phone” to control the small satellite. If everything goes according to the plan, the petit Strand-1 satellite will carry the first Nexus 487 miles above the earth’s surface on the back of a rocket.
According to the lead engineer Dr. Chris Bridges, Nexus One’s hardware hasn’t been modified in any way. “We’ve essentially got a regular phone, connected up the USB to it and put it in the satellite,” he said.
Of course, there’s a custom software installed on this Nexus One unit, including few student-designed apps. The goal is to help experts better understand possible scenarios where consumer gadgets may be able to augment future space projects. Pretty cool when you think about it.
As a reminder, NASA has been conducting similar projects of its own.