A New Brunswick writer is set to have her book included in a unique project that will land on the moon. Jennifer Shelby’s collection of short stories, titled “Borrowed Wings and other stories,” will be part of the Lunar Codex, a compilation of cultural works from around the world, sent through NASA’s Artemis program.
Rather than simply dropping the physical book on the moon’s surface, the Lunar Codex employs advanced technology to inscribe literary works onto small, durable materials like nickel. This method allows for long-lasting preservation and readability under microscopic conditions.
The brain behind this innovative project is Samuel Peralta, a Canadian physicist and author, who established the Lunar Codex six years ago to uplift artists affected by the pandemic. Peralta’s initiative has gathered artistic contributions from numerous countries and Indigenous nations, showcasing a diverse range of creative voices.
Private entities can purchase space on lunar missions to showcase their items on the moon. Peralta revealed that the cost of transporting one kilogram of material to the moon is $1 million, prompting the use of nickel for its longevity in space conditions.
Shelby, known for her enchanting storytelling blending fairytales with modern themes, expressed her excitement at the prospect of her work being immortalized on the lunar surface. Her unique narratives have been featured in various publications, reflecting her imaginative and wonder-filled writing style.
After a lengthy process, Shelby’s stories are finally scheduled for inclusion in the Lunar Codex during the upcoming winter mission. The author, residing in Riverside-Albert near the Bay of Fundy, described the surreal experience of gazing at the moon from her dark sky corridor home.
Speculating on the future, Shelby pondered the possibility of extraterrestrial life stumbling upon human stories, drawing inspiration from a past incident involving the accidental release of tardigrades on the moon. The author remains captivated by the magical allure of her work journeying to the moon, sparking new creative ideas and musings.
