Opera to boldly go where no browser has gone before..First details of Opera Space Edition emerge

By Opera Software ASA

April 1, 2010 - Oslo, Norway - Opera Software today brings the browser wars to new astronautical heights by publicly inaugurating its Future Opera Operations in Lunar Surroundings program. The ambitious project will culminate in the release of Opera Space Edition, the first Web browser in space.

"I believe that this company should commit itself to achieving the goal of putting a Web browser in space," said Jon von Tetzchner, Co-founder, Opera. "No single space project in this period will be more impressive to other browser makers or more important for the long-range exploration of the Web, and none will be so difficult to accomplish. But, in a very real sense, it will not be one browser going to space--it will be an entire industry. For all of us must work to bring it there."

Key features of Opera Space Edition:
- Browse while leaving the Earth behind. Opera Space Edition supports Interplanetary Network Transport Protocol (INTP), which allows for long-range connectivity with the Internet, even at extreme ranges that cause traditional network transport protocols to fail due to latency and light-speed limitations

- Browse comfortably from the vacuum of space. Mission Mode ensures all browser operations can be monitored, adjusted and audited by Mission Control (except when using private browsing).

- Experience cross-suit compatibility. Opera Space Edition features Augmented Reality Browsing (ARB) to render Web content in a transparent overlay mode that is compatible with all major space suit Visual Retinal Displays (VRDs) or Heads-up Displays (HUDs).

- Enjoy touchscreen optimization for bulky gloves. Proximity sensors detect the exact region of the screen the user wants to access, and zoom allows for precise selection of the desired user-interface element.

Availability
Opera Space Edition is in closed beta testing. Sign up at http://www.opera.com/portal/inspace/ to be among the first to try the classified technology designed for Future Opera Operations in Lunar Surroundings.

About Opera Software ASA
Opera Software ASA has redefined Web browsing for PCs, mobile phones and other networked devices. Opera's cross-platform Web browser technology is renowned for its performance, standards compliance and small size, while giving users a faster, safer and more dynamic online experience. Opera Software is headquartered in Oslo, Norway, with offices around the world. The company is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol OPERA. Learn more about Opera at http://www.opera.com/.