A writer from New Brunswick is set to showcase her literary work on the moon soon. Jennifer Shelby’s compilation of short stories titled “Borrowed Wings and other stories” will be part of the Lunar Codex project, an archive of cultural pieces worldwide, initiated through NASA’s Artemis program.
Shelby expressed her excitement, noting the special feeling she gets when gazing at the moon. The book will not be simply left on the moon’s surface but will be stored in a unique manner akin to microfilm, using metal-based technology. This innovative approach was conceived by Samuel Peralta, a physicist and author from Canada, who established the Lunar Codex to uplift artists during the pandemic.
Peralta mentioned that the Lunar Codex includes art from various countries and Indigenous nations, illustrating its global reach. The process involves selling space on the moon to private buyers, with the cost of one kilogram amounting to $1 million due to the longevity and durability of nickel on the lunar surface.
Shelby’s inclusion in the Lunar Codex marks a significant achievement for her as a writer. Her storytelling style, described as modern fairytales, has been well-received in numerous publications. She found the idea of her work being preserved on the moon akin to a story unfolding in real life.
The Lunar Codex project has multiple missions planned, with Shelby’s work slated for the upcoming winter deployment. Despite having some time to digest the news, Shelby admitted to feeling surreal about her story’s imminent lunar journey. Living in Riverside-Albert, near the Bay of Fundy renowned for its dark skies, she finds the moon’s presence awe-inspiring.
Reflecting on the potential impact of her work reaching the moon, Shelby mused about the evolution of tardigrades, also known as water bears, which accidentally landed on the moon. This unique experience has already sparked ideas for a new story in her creative mind.
