SUCCESS! 2,049,215 craigslist ads were successfully transmitted on 26 July 2005 at 9:40pm EDT.
Update [July 15, 2005]: Shuttle launch delayed -- when the shuttle launches, so will 2,049,215 craigslist ads.
Update [July 12, 2005]: All systems are currently "go" for the transmission of 2,049,215 ads designated for deep space by craigslist users, in conjunction with the launch of the space shuttle Discovery at Cape Canaveral, currently scheduled for 3:51pm EST.
Update [March 14, 2005]: A successful "test transmission" of 138,179 classified ads designated by craigslist users for outer space took place yesterday, in conjunction with the Atlas launch at Cape Canaveral -- full details here
Beam your craigslist ad into space
WHAT: craigslist CEO Jim Buckmaster won an eBay auction for the first private communication transmission light years into deep space, with the idea of offering this opportunity to craigslist users.HOW: The friendly folks at Deep Space Communications Network (DSCN) will beam the postings trillions of miles into space using redundant klystron transmitters and a satellite dish.
HOW MUCH: The winning bid was $1225, but craigslist is negotiating with DSCN for extra capacity to accomodate the anticipated volume of craigslist postings to be transmitted - 10,000 ads were designated by users for transmission during the first 24 hours!
WHEN: The transmission is currently scheduled for May 15th, 2005, directly following the launch of the space shuttle Discovery.
WHERE: Cape Canaveral, FL
WHY: It seemed fitting for craigslist users to be the first to beam internet postings and classified ads into deep space.
PRESS::::::::: craigslist press release ::::::::: google news search ::::::::PR contact - Susan Mactavish Best
FAQ:
Q: Is this a hoax.
A: No.Q: Do you really think there is a chance that Extraterrestrials will receive and understand this transmission?
A: DSCN has assured us that there is a nonzero chance of this happening. Pretty exciting!Q: Will you be charging users for this opportunity?
A: Of course not.Q: How will the postings be selected for transmission?
A: A checkbox on the posting form will be available starting immediatelyQ: Will picture postings be included?
A: Yes. Don't forget to brush your hair.Q: Why is this being done in conjunction with the launch of the Discovery?
A: Because the equipment being used for the transmission will be available during that time slot.Q: How many postings will be beamed into space?
A: Quite a few. In the first 24 hours, approximately 10,000 postings were earmarked by users for transmissionQ: Will anything else be included in the transmission?
A: A personal video statement from Craig, a clip from the documentary film "24 hours on craigslist", and ...?