Genomics, Proteomics, Bioinformatics

SOAD And Spaceomix To Pioneer DNA Sequencing Beyond Low Earth Orbit

By Keith Cowing
Press Release
State of the African Diaspora
December 6, 2023
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SOAD And Spaceomix To Pioneer DNA Sequencing Beyond Low Earth Orbit
SOAD and Spaceomix MOU

In an unprecedented collaboration, the State of the African Diaspora (SOAD) and Spaceomix have inked a groundbreaking partnership poised to transcend boundaries of scientific exploration.

The primary focus of this alliance is to embark on an ambitious mission to sequence DNA beyond lower earth orbit that includes the lunar surface and deep space, ushering in a new era of space-based genetic research that has never before ventured beyond Earth’s immediate vicinity.

While Spaceomix has a distinguished history of spearheading innovative space and biomedical initiatives, this upcoming program represents a quantum leap, marking a historic milestone in humanity’s quest to decode genetic information beyond our planet’s confines.

The connection between Spaceomix and SOAD was organised by Sir Anthony Coleiro, SOAD’s Ambassador to Malta, and very quickly, convergences of views became apparent. This research endeavor stands totally in line with the space vision of the State of the African Diaspora, led by Dr. Cheick Modibo Diarra, the Minister of Science and Industry. Dr. Diarra, used to be the Prime Minister of Mali, and before that, had great responsibilities at NASA, which brings invaluable expertise to SOAD’s space program, positioning the nation as a pioneer in the quest for interstellar scientific breakthroughs.

Upon signing the cooperation agreement, Dr. Tin, Prime Minister of SOAD, stated,

“We are thrilled to embark on this epoch-making journey with Spaceomix. Our mission to sequence DNA beyond Earth’s orbit signifies a watershed moment not only for our nation, but for the entire African continent. As SOAD is about to become one of the first nation of Africa, if not the first to be involved in an experiment on the Moon, SOAD extends an open invitation to fellow African nations to join us in this monumental scientific expedition.”

In response, Prof. Joseph Borg, Director of Spaceomix, articulated,

“This collaboration stands at the precipice of scientific history. Our joint pursuit to sequence DNA on the moon and in outer space epitomizes the epitome of pioneering research, opening unprecedented avenues for advancements in both terrestrial and celestial life sciences.”

This collaborative pursuit not only promises to revolutionize our comprehension of life beyond our planet but also holds the key to transformative breakthroughs in health, medical advancements, and fostering a new wave of educational opportunities that will inspire future generations to reach for the stars.

Astrobiology

Explorers Club Fellow, ex-NASA Space Station Payload manager/space biologist, Away Teams, Journalist, Lapsed climber, Synaesthete, Na’Vi-Jedi-Freman-Buddhist-mix, ASL, Devon Island and Everest Base Camp veteran, (he/him) 🖖🏻