OpenAI Model Names Echo Crypto Tokens, Fueling Meme Frenzy
OpenAI used the Latin words for “sun, earth and moon” to name the three capability tiers of GPT-5.6, originally intended to distinguish its flagship, balanced and low-cost models. But Sol evoked Solana’s SOL token, while Terra and LUNA revived memories of the 2022 collapse that erased about $40 billion in market value, quickly turning the names into a talking point in crypto circles.
OpenAI began a limited preview on June 26, 2026, before fully rolling out GPT-5.6 Sol, Terra and Luna on July 9. Solana’s official X account promptly mocked CEO Sam Altman as “Sam Altcoinman,” with the reply drawing more than 90,000 views and over 2,000 likes. The three APIs are priced at $5, $2.50 and $1 per million input tokens, respectively.
All Coverage
2 original reportsThe Backstory
The history behind this eventOpenAI Launches GPT-5.6 Family With Three New Models
OpenAI has divided GPT-5.6 into three capability tiers that can evolve independently: flagship model Sol; Terra, designed to balance everyday performance and cost; and Luna, focused on speed and affordability. The structure lets businesses allocate spending according to task complexity. Sol strengthens long-horizon agentic work, software development and cybersecurity research, and carries tighter safeguards because of potential misuse risks.
At the U.S. government’s request, OpenAI gave about 20 approved partners a limited preview on June 26, 2026, before releasing the models on ChatGPT, Codex and the API on July 9. Input/output prices per million tokens are $5/$30 for Sol, $2.50/$15 for Terra and $1/$6 for Luna. Sol scored 92.2% on BrowseComp and 62.6% on OSWorld 2.0, both record highs.
Subscribe to Mark Radar Weekly
Every Friday, the week's strongest signals in your inbox. Unsubscribe anytime.
If you search news on Google, you can set Mark Radar as a preferred source—our coverage will show up more often in your results. Set as preferred source on Google →