Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), which is engaged in research and development for making robotic spacecraft, for the space agency and especially for NASA, has posted an advertisement for the post of Data Scientist which mentions that “Experience with Cryptocurrency and Blockchain is considered a plus.” No explanation is given as to how a candidate’s knowledge of cryptocurrency and blockchain would be applied to space technology.
According to the advertisement, the appointed Data Scientist will develop applications for cloud computing, AI, robotics, mission assurance, multi-mission systems, and flight hardware. They will also have to undertake the responsibility of planning a program for data mining, modeling, research, and predictive analysis. A candidate would require a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, Computer Science or Information systems with 1 year of experience or a Masters degree with zero experience.
This advertisement has led to speculation that JPL and by extension NASA could be planning use-cases for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology in its space program.
A Data Scientist familiar with cryptocurrency and blockchain could help at least explore the potential of any project based on blockchain and cryptocurrency. Based on his analysis, the organization would be able to study the feasibility of any blockchain project.
According to the advertisement, the candidate would primarily require knowledge in fields like cloud computing, big data, analytics, machine learning, statistics, data integration, data gathering, deep learning, computer programming, data “munging,” databases, visualization, communications and internet of Things.
As Blockchains break the space frontier, what is evident is that more and more people are interested in exploring the technology and comparing it with their systems to see if they can create any use cases for it. The fact that the technology is considered safe enough and stable enough to be even considered for space travel will reassure those seeking to implement if for more earthly ventures.
