Microsoft set to advertise in space on satellite billboard
Microsoft is among a string of brands set to take their advertising into space via a new parternship between Clear Channel, the European Space Agency (ESA) and Leuven University in Belgium.
In 2016 the ESA willl launch a rocket into space with a Belgium CubeSat (mini-satellite) on board that will serve as an advertising billboard and will be operated by Clear Channel.
The project is the brainchild of three engineering students from Leuven University who came up with the idea as a way to raise funds for their other scientific projects.
A number of campaigns will run on social media to create a buzz around the project and drive awareness of the brands already registered, which include Electrabel, Sophos, Prothetica, Walnuts Australia, Mobile Vikings, Kinepolis and Seeq.
Bart Demeulenaere, sales director of Clear Channel Belgium said the tie-up is about "taking the first step" into the future.
“While the dream of interstellar travel is still on hold, it is possible to advertise in space from today," he said. "Even the sky is no longer the limit. It’s now possible to reach the stars with any brand that wishes to push the boundaries of its communications together with us. This is about taking the first step towards the future – by supporting a scientific project initiated by young people.
"And it’s about the glory: not just anyone can send their company logo into space. At Clear Channel we are entirely convinced of the possibilities of the project. We already feel like space pioneers.”
One advertising spot on the satellite is valued at € 2,500 (£1700).