T-Mobile is giving its customers a chance to take their selfies to the next level—literally. Through an innovative collaboration with YouTuber and former NASA engineer Mark Rober, T-Mobile users can have their selfies photographed in space with Earth as the stunning backdrop. Here’s how you can join this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Key Details at a Glance
- What’s Happening: T-Mobile is offering customers a free opportunity to have their selfies photographed in space.
- How It Works: Mark Rober’s satellite, SAT GUS, will capture selfies displayed on a Google Pixel phone against the backdrop of Earth.
- Launch Date: SAT GUS will launch aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket in January 2025.
- Availability: T-Mobile users can claim their free Space Selfie code via the T-Mobile Tuesdays app starting December 3, 2024.
The “Space Selfie” Project
The “Space Selfie” initiative is spearheaded by Mark Rober and his creative engineering team at CrunchLabs. A satellite named SAT GUS will orbit Earth and display user-submitted selfies on a Google Pixel phone, capturing images of these photos with the planet as the background.
SAT GUS will launch aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket during the Transporter 12 mission, departing from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base. Once in orbit, it will capture up to 1,000 selfies daily based on visible locations from space, making it a first-come, first-served event for participants.
How to Participate
T-Mobile Customers:
- Access the T-Mobile Tuesdays app starting December 3.
- Redeem your free Space Selfie code.
- Upload your selfie to spaceselfie.com.
Once submitted, participants will receive updates tracking when their selfie will be taken in orbit.
Other Ways to Join:
- CrunchLabs is offering Space Selfie codes to subscribers and those who donate $30 or more to sponsor a future engineer.
- Google Pixel users may also get a chance to participate, though eligibility details are pending.
Why It Matters
While the Space Selfie project is undeniably fun, it also serves a greater purpose. CrunchLabs aims to inspire interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) among young people. Proceeds from the $30 donations will benefit organizations like FIRST Robotics and Google.org, supporting future engineers and innovators.
When to Expect Your Space Selfie
The first round of selfies will be captured and returned a few months after SAT GUS’s launch in early 2025. However, keep in mind that all selfies will be publicly viewable on the Space Selfie website.
Final Thoughts
T-Mobile’s partnership with CrunchLabs brings a unique and engaging way for customers to connect with space exploration while promoting STEM education. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, an aspiring engineer, or just someone who loves taking selfies, this initiative is a fun way to be part of something out of this world.
Mark your calendars for December 3 and get ready for your celestial close-up!