Android goes into outer space

NASA’s next missions will use Android OS and Google Nexus hardware to build low-cost satellites for space study.

The one mission, PhoneSat 1.0, requires easy-to-assemble satellites to be constructed from a Nexus One, which will be sent into orbit to beam pictures of space back to Earth.

PhoneSat 2.0 will expand on the first mission and use a Nexus S, along with other upgrades, which will allow NASA to control the satellite from Earth.

Each satellite will cost $3,500 (R29,500*) and will help NASA design and permit more affordable satellites for a variety of purposes.

*Exchange rate calculated at time of article (1 USD = 8.40576 ZAR)

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