What To Know
- Additionally, the central area offers ample space for movement, complete with a bar and a bathroom, which the company describes as a ‘spa.
- The development of the Excelsior capsule and its impending test flights mark a significant milestone in the realm of space tourism.
- Prepare to embark on a voyage like no other, as Space Perspective takes you to the very edge of our world, offering a perspective that few have ever seen.
Space Perspective, a pioneering aerospace company, has unveiled its ambitious project: space tourism via balloon. Their cutting-edge capsule, Excelsior, is set to offer passengers breathtaking views of Earth from the stratosphere. Read on to discover the details of this extraordinary venture.
About Space Perspective
Space Perspective, based in Titusville, Florida, was founded in 2019 by industry veterans Jane Poynter and Taber MacCallum. The company aims to offer unprecedented views of Earth from the edge of space, revolutionizing the concept of space tourism. Their innovative approach involves using a high-altitude balloon to transport passengers to the stratosphere, providing a unique and serene journey.
The Excelsior Capsule: Engineering Marvel
The Excelsior capsule is a testament to Space Perspective’s commitment to innovation and passenger experience. Designed with the largest windows ever flown in space, it promises to deliver spectacular views of Earth. The capsule is spherical to maximize interior space, ensuring comfort and an unobstructed view for all passengers.
Specifications
The capsule weighs over seven tons and features a robust carbon fiber structure. It has a diameter of 4.9 meters and is carried by a massive balloon standing 183 meters tall. This design enables the capsule to ascend to the edge of the Earth’s atmosphere and safely return.
Introducing Spaceship Neptune – Excelsior, our finished test capsule! With the largest windows ever flown to space and a spherical design that allows for the roomiest interior of any human #spaceflight capsule ever made, our spaceship offers the most incredible panoramic views of… pic.twitter.com/0GGvvUbfw4
— Space Perspective (@SpacePerspectiv) February 20, 2024
Onboard Comfort and Amenities
Space Perspective ensures that the journey aboard Excelsior is as comfortable as it is awe-inspiring. The capsule is equipped with padded seats arranged in short rows, providing each passenger with an excellent view. Additionally, the central area offers ample space for movement, complete with a bar and a bathroom, which the company describes as a ‘spa.’
- Padded seating for enhanced comfort.
- Central area with a bar and spa-like bathroom.
- Space for eight passengers plus a captain.
The Flight Experience
A flight with Space Perspective lasts approximately six hours, during which passengers, referred to as ‘explorers,’ can enjoy the stunning vistas of Earth. The captain serves as the host, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. This leisurely ascent to the stratosphere offers a peaceful and unforgettable experience, different from the high-speed rockets traditionally associated with space travel.
Cost and Booking
The cost for this unique experience is set at $125,000 per seat. Interested explorers can secure their spot with a refundable deposit starting at $1,000. This investment offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the curvature of the Earth and the vastness of space firsthand.
Homage to Project Excelsior
The name ‘Excelsior’ is a tribute to the Project Excelsior initiated by Joe Kittinger in the 1950s. Kittinger’s project involved high-altitude balloon flights and special parachutes for escaping from aircraft at great heights. This historical nod reflects the pioneering spirit and ambition of Space Perspective.
Future Prospects
Space Perspective’s vision extends beyond just offering space tourism. They aim to contribute to scientific research and education, providing a platform for experiments and observations in the upper atmosphere. The success of the Excelsior capsule could pave the way for more advanced and accessible space travel options in the future.
The development of the Excelsior capsule and its impending test flights mark a significant milestone in the realm of space tourism. Space Perspective is set to redefine our relationship with space, making the dream of seeing Earth from above a reality for many.
As the project progresses, it continues to capture the imagination of the public and the interest of potential explorers. The unique combination of innovation, comfort, and breathtaking views ensures that a journey with Space Perspective will be a truly memorable experience.
Prepare to embark on a voyage like no other, as Space Perspective takes you to the very edge of our world, offering a perspective that few have ever seen. The future of space tourism is here, and it starts with Excelsior.
