User Printer (@Printer_Gobrrr) has made a groundbreaking achievement by successfully transmitting a Bitcoin Lightning invoice (in the form of a QR code) via a geostationary communications satellite (QO-100 / Es’hail-2) for the very first time.
Milestone achieved: I received and settled the inaugural Lightning invoice sent through actual space. pic.twitter.com/9zq5SYnAWK
— Printer ⚡ (@Printer_Gobrrr) September 9, 2025
This event further illustrates that Bitcoin transactions can occur even in off-the-grid scenarios.
Transmitting Lightning Network invoices through space
The user created a Bitcoin Lightning invoice within their wallet, which was then transformed into an image file and uploaded to the AMSAT-DL Multimedia HS Modem. This modem is designed to transmit files using digital modulation techniques.
The setup on the ground included a parabolic dish along with a transmission chain responsible for sending out the digital signal. The image was uplinked to the satellite’s digital transponder.
Subsequently, this Lightning invoice was transmitted back down to Earth using frequencies from the satellite’s downlink system.
Once received, AMSAT-DL modem software decoded this digital transmission, allowing for scanning of the QR code with a Lighting wallet application.
Despite being processed over lightning technology, this payment request functioned entirely off-grid.
Interstellar currency
This potentially historic transaction highlights Bitcoin’s resilience as it proves suitable for financial activities beyond traditional infrastructures. The cryptocurrency can be utilized in extremely isolated areas or under authoritarian regimes where conventional banking may not be accessible.
Notably, Blockstream Satellite and SpaceChain conducted humanity’s first-ever Bitcoin transaction in space back in August 2019.