i confess that i can't read this without hearing PIGS...IN...SPACE! from the muppet show. from a craigslist press release:
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.
[snip]
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 immediately.
Q: 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 transmission.
Q: 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 ...?
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