Halo Space to Launch Space Flights from Saudi Base
Spanish space tourism company, Halo Space, has announced that Saudi Arabia will be the next launch site for the company’s space tourism flights, amid preparations for testing the second full-scale prototype capsule which will travel 32 kilometers above Earth’s surface.
Testing, Approval Process
Halo Space, headquartered in Madrid, stated it will commence its sixth experimental stratospheric journey from Saudi Arabia in June, with approval from the Saudi Communications and Space Technology Committee (CST), the governmental body overseeing space affairs.
Verification of Integrated Systems
In an official statement, CEO Carlos Mira mentioned the Saudi-based test aims to verify the integrated operation of all vital vehicle systems for upcoming flights, bringing Halo Space one step closer to its goal of initiating commercial air travel in 2026.
Space Experience for Saudi Tourists
Saudi tourists may soon experience space travel facilitated by Halo Space outside Earth’s bounds through stratospheric flights at an altitude of 32 kilometers. The estimated cost for commercial orbital trips is around $164,000.
Company Background, Expansion Plans
Established in 2021 through Arthur D. Little’s Breakthrough Incubator program, Halo Space plans to establish four bases worldwide, including Saudi Arabia, the United States, Australia, and Spain, for launching its stratospheric space flights in the future.
Space tourism and prominent companies involved
Space tourism, known as the travel to outer space for leisure and recreation, can be done aboard government-owned vehicles like the Russian Soyuz spacecraft and the International Space Station, or private company spacecraft. This form of tourism has gained significant prominence and widespread importance.
Space tourism, once a distant dream, is now closer to reality than ever before. There are various companies announcing their readiness to make it happen.
Virgin Galactic
British airline company Virgin, owned by entrepreneur Richard Branson, launched its space tourism arm, Virgin Galactic. Moreover, tickets are priced at £360, 000 per person for a 90-minute journey, reaching just 12 miles into outer space, with a total of 6 passengers.
Blue Origin
Another company, Blue Origin, commenced its space tourism flights in 2021 and is gearing up for similar trips. Ticket prices range from £160, 000 to £240, 000 per person for a trip into outer space and back, accommodating a maximum of 6 passengers.
Axiom Space
Axiom Space stands out as the only company offering multi-day journeys into outer space rather than mere visits. Ticket prices are approximately £44 million per person, with trips lasting up to 10 days. The company launched its first trips in 2022 and plans for 4 to 5 additional flights. Axiom Space restricts the maximum number of passengers to 4 individuals per journey.
First Space Tour
The first space tourism trip was recorded in 2001 by the world’s first space tourist, American businessman Dennis Tito, who managed to undertake his journey by paying twenty million dollars aboard the Russian spacecraft Soyuz TM-32. He spent seven days aboard the International Space Station. Tito objected to the use of the word “tourist” due to the rigorous training he underwent to complete his mission. Instead, he preferred the term “space participant” to distinguish between space travelers and professional astronauts.
Finally, Space tourism is classified as a rapidly growing industry, attracting wealthy travelers and adventure enthusiasts. It is akin to a modern-day safari trip, except it is conducted aboard a rocket launched into space.
Related Topics :
Saudi Space Authority Releases Q4 2023 GameMode Report
Tourism Development Fund Signs Agreement with Shomoul Co. for The Avenues-Khobar
Tourism in the Kingdom is a breathtaking nature
