Shift4 Payments, a provider of integrated payment and commerce technology, has partnered with space exploration company Blue Origin to enable cryptocurrency and stablecoin payments for trips aboard the New Shepard spacecraft.
Beginning immediately, consumers can use cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, as well as stablecoins including USDT and USDC, to book commercial spaceflights on Blue Origin’s New Shepard. The payment process is powered by Shift4’s technology, allowing customers to connect popular digital wallets like Coinbase and MetaMask for direct and secure transactions. To date, over 75 individuals have traveled past the Kármán Line, the recognized boundary into space, aboard the reusable New Shepard rocket.
Taylor Lauber, CEO of Shift4, stated that the partnership extends the company’s mission to simplify transactions beyond Earth, making space accessible globally. He noted that the collaboration will allow travelers to book the experience with their preferred payment method, ensuring a frictionless process.
This integration builds on Shift4’s existing capabilities and global partner network, supporting customers worldwide with next-generation payment solutions. For Blue Origin, enabling crypto and stablecoin payments via Shift4 provides access to a growing base of crypto holders, facilitates immediate international transactions, and offers faster settlement in United States Dollars, available at any time.
Alex Wilson, Head of Crypto at Shift4, highlighted the increasing significance of the crypto asset class, which he noted has reached $4 trillion. Wilson expressed belief that cryptocurrencies and stablecoins will become an increasingly popular payment method, particularly for high-value purchases, due to financial benefits for both consumers and merchants. This new payment option is available for all upcoming commercial spaceflight bookings on New Shepard, aligning with the rising consumer demand for secure digital payment solutions.
Blue Origin’s New Shepard is a suborbital vehicle designed to carry passengers to an altitude exceeding 100km, offering views of Earth through large windows.
