A Russian, billionaire scientist is the leader of our first ever nation in space. He set up the space nation of Asgardia at a ceremony in Austria. He stated that: "This day will certainly be recorded in...history as one of the greatest events for humankind." He added: "I can therefore declare with confidence that Asgardia - the first space nation of the united humankind - has been born." He said it was a project that would see human colonies on the Moon.
Asgardia is named after Asgard - a flying city in ancient Scandinavian mythology. Around 200,000 people have signed up to be citizens. Within the next 10 years, this should be 150 million. It will be the ninth most populous country. New citizens must pass an intelligence test and pay an annual membership of 100 euros. Asgardia has a goal to launch high-tech arks in space where Asgardian citizens can live, grow food and be financially successful.