Richard Branson-led space tour company Virgin Galactic is set to launch its first commercial flight carrying paying customers to the edge of space. The company, with likes of Blue Origin and SpaceX, is catering to wealthy individuals who are willing to pay large sums of money for the experience of supersonic rocket speed and microgravity.

Ticket price

Virgin Galactic has already booked approximately 800 customers, with ticket prices ranging from $250,000 to $450,000 per seat. The company envisions building a fleet large enough to accommodate 400 flights annually.

How Safe is the Ticket to Space?

Safety is a critical factor for Virgin Galactic as it establishes its commercial service. In 2014, an earlier prototype of its rocket plane crashed during a test flight, resulting in the death of one pilot. Passengers are required to sign waivers acknowledging the risks involved in space tourism, as the industry lacks government regulation.

The debate over the definition of spaceflight also plays a role in the competition among companies. Blue Origin’s suborbital New Shepard rocketship surpasses the internationally recognized Karman line at 62 miles (100 kilometers), while Virgin Galactic’s flights cross the 50-mile mark. However, NASA and the U.S. Air Force consider anyone who has flown 50-mile-or-higher to be an astronaut.

Moreover, the first flight comes as a research mission for the Italian Air Force. With the commencement of commercial service, Virgin Galactic and its competitors are ushering into a new era of space tourism, seeing beyond the unique experiences of the Earth’s atmosphere.

FAQs

Q1. Is it safe to fly to space with Virgin Galactic?
A1. Virgin Galactic has taken extensive safety precautions, but there is always some risk involved in space travel. Passengers are required to sign waivers acknowledging the risks involved.

Q2. How much does it cost to fly to space with Virgin Galactic?
A2. The cost of a Virgin Galactic ticket starts at $250,000 and goes up to $450,000.