July 17, 2024

NASA Sends Missy Elliott’s ‘The Rain’ To Venus: First-Ever Hip-Hop Song In Space

Missy Elliot

NASA has made history by transmitting the lyrics of Missy Elliott’s iconic song, “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly),” to Venus. This event marks the first time a hip-hop song has been beamed into space.

A Hip-Hop Song In Space

On July 12 at 10:05 a.m. PDT, the lyrics were sent from NASA’s Deep Space Network (DSN) Goldstone complex in California. 

The DSN,  known for its large and sensitive array of radio antennas, facilitates deep-space communication, supporting missions from the Moon to far-reaching planets. 

The transmission traveled approximately 158 million miles (254 million kilometers) to reach Venus, Missy Elliot’s favorite planet.

“I chose Venus because it symbolizes strength, beauty, and empowerment. I am humbled to share my art and message with the universe!” Missy Elliot said in a press release

Exploring Venus

This unique collaboration aligns with NASA’s ongoing interest in Venus.

 The DSN will play a crucial role in upcoming missions to explore Venus and send data back to Earth

DAVINCI (Deep Atmosphere Venus Investigation of Noble gases, Chemistry, and Imaging) is set to launch no later than 2029, while VERITAS (Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography, and Spectroscopy) will launch in 20231.

These missions aim to investigate Venus’ atmosphere and surface, promising new insights into the planet’s characteristics.


Feature Image Credit: Aaron J. Thornton/WireImage

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Sara Keenan

Tech Reporter at POCIT. Following her master's degree in journalism, Sara cultivated a deep passion for writing and driving positive change for Black and Brown individuals across all areas of life. This passion expanded to include the experiences of Black and Brown people in tech thanks to her internship experience as an editorial assistant at a tech startup.