The top-level domain (TLD) “.space” is part of the internet’s generic top-level domain (gTLD) system. It is generally used by businesses, professionals, and individuals who are associated with the space industry, but it is unrestricted and open to all internet users.
In the hierarchy of domain names, TLDs are at the top. They are the letters found at the end of an internet address, like “.com”, “.org”, or “.gov”. When the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) decided to expand the list of TLDs, a number of new gTLDs, including “.space”, were introduced, providing a greater variety for website owners to choose from. This information can be corroborated from resources like ICANN’s official website or web resources like the VeriSign Domain Name Industry Brief.
“.space” is managed by RADIX, a domain registry that is a part of Directi Group and located in the United Arab Emirates, which administers several other new gTLDs. Examples of websites using the “.space” extension range from personal portfolios to space-related information sites. For example, the website “expanse.space” is a space exploration information portal using the “.space” domain, showcasing how it can be effectively used by entities associated with the field of space.
Operating since 2014, the “.space” TLD has experienced significant popularity. As of late 2021, it was estimated to have around 400,000 domain name registrations, according to domain name statistics from nTLD stats. This demonstrates its acceptance and wide usage by web users globally.
Another example is the success story of “time.space”, a digital art project that uses the “.space” TLD. This digital exhibition showcases time-based pieces of digital art, establishing a thematic connection with the “.space” domain name.
To summarize, the “.space” TLD is an open-use domain meant for individuals, businesses, and organizations associated with space. However, given its unrestricted nature, it can be used by anyone wishing to create an interesting and unique domain name for their digital space. ICANN’s expansion of the TLD options with innovative offerings like “.space” has undoubtedly added an exciting dimension to the digital landscape.
The above information has been compiled from various sources including ICANN’s official website, RADIX’s official site, VeriSign’s Domain Name Industry Brief, nTLD stats, and example websites that use the “.space” TLD.
