On NASA Astronaut Scott Kelly, NFTs, and Ukraine Support
Last week, former NASA astronaut Scott Kelly had the second of two NFT auctions of his digital art, with the proceeds supporting humanitarian efforts for Ukraine.
In the first auction (on April 12), he offered a 3,333-piece art project called "Dreams Out Of This World" which sold out in six hours and raised about $435,000.
The second auction (on May 5), featured 15 photos Kelly took while in space and includes his voiceover description of each photo.
Scott Kelly said, "I think the metaverse and crypto[currency] and blockchain will be a big part of our future ... So it seemed like the right time for me to get involved.
“Similar to space travel, the metaverse might not seem accessible to the masses at the present time.
"I am most honored to be able to assist the people of Ukraine during their time of crisis by donating 100% of net proceeds from the initial sale to the Global Empowerment Mission."
Project Notes
Kelly worked with Los Angeles-based Orange Comet, Inc., an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) creative studio and blockchain experience company co-founded by Dave Broome (veteran Hollywood producer), Kurt Warner (NFL Hall of Famer), and Gloria and Emilio Estefan (Grammy award-winning music icons.)
Scott's digital items were available on OpenSea, an NFT marketplace.
Global Empowerment Mission is a non-profit support organization.
OUR TAKE
Today, the NFT market is viewed as a mix of speculation and scams, but Scott Kelly’s project may be part of a growing trend that demonstrates how NFTs and other digital assets can be more broadly used.
NFT approaches will address many market needs and successful efforts will require 1) durable and engaging user experiences, 2) solid intellectual property and contract processes, and 3) an understanding of how the use of tokens and blockchains add value.
Regarding Ukraine: The conflict will 1) likely be protracted (multiple years) and 2) require many forms of humanitarian and military aid.