By T. Jayani, JadeTimes News
Virgin Galactic is gearing up for another space tourism flight on June 8, highlighting the growing demand and expansion within the space industry. David Doughty, co founder of Rocket Breaks, revealed that there are currently between 3,000 to 4,000 individuals eagerly awaiting their turn for space travel. His agency has secured contracts with seven tourists, one of whom has a confirmed launch date.
The upcoming Virgin Galactic flight will originate from New Mexico and will carry three private passengers from diverse locations such as California, New York, and Italy. Additionally, a researcher astronaut from Axiom Space and two commanders will be on board. The identities of the private passengers have not been disclosed.
Virgin Galactic emphasizes that their mission transcends mere tourism, as passengers embark on a purposeful journey that begins with ticket purchase, transforming them into astronauts.
During the roughly 90 minute journey to the edge of space, passengers will experience a few minutes of zero gravity. While the company's website lists spaceflight tickets at $450,000, actual prices remain undisclosed. Executives have mentioned an average price per seat exceeding $800,000, with hopes of eventually setting ticket prices at $600,000.
Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin offer suborbital flights, while SpaceX focuses on orbital travel, including trips to the International Space Station. The space tourism industry is expanding, with companies like Space Perspective offering more luxurious experiences lasting up to six hours.
Rocket Breaks, a space travel agency, anticipates the industry's evolution towards personalized experiences, catering to diverse preferences and interests. Confidence in space travel technology is growing, with expectations of routine trips to the moon within the next decade.