Science · 2 September 2026

First mission to another star system launching in 2029 with human DNA

Unsplash / NASA Hubble Space Telescope

The Fermi Explorer Mission aims to send a fridge-sized craft with human DNA samples to the Alpha Centauri star system. Co-founded by Philip Johnston of Starcloud, the mission will begin its 79,800-year journey in 2029, setting a course for Alpha Centauri A. The £11 million craft, powered by solar electric propulsion, will also carry the Voyager Golden Record, containing greetings and music.

By BriefTea Editorial · 2 September 2026 at 0:47

Reported by Metro.co.uk · How we write briefs

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Why send human DNA? Why Alpha Centauri? What is solar electric propulsion?

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