What if getting into space was as easy as stepping into an elevator? Space tourism is here to make that a reality. The next few years will see a series of missions for non-astronauts.
Up until the new millennium, only professional astronauts were able to leave the Earth and head for the stars. But now, space is beginning to open up to civilians — at least those with big enough bank accounts.
Space tourism is closer to reality than ever before, as private spaceflight companies develop new modes of transportation to get humans to the stars.
The concept of space tourism is one of the most exciting emerging features of the wider tourism industry. Companies like Virgin Galactic and SpaceX are already making waves by outlining plans to deliver various forms of commercial spaceflight in the near future.
Let’s find out more about the space tourism industry and the companies that are most likely to deliver on it.
A Brief History of Space Tourism
The concept of space tourism isn’t entirely new. The early 2000s saw the Russian Space Agency pioneer orbital space tourism, facilitating journeys for seven individuals. However, their operations ceased in 2010.
Fast forward to today, and private companies are leading the charge in making space tourism a mainstream experience. Companies like Virgin Galactic, SpaceX, and Blue Origin are actively developing innovative spacecraft and booking reservations for spacefaring adventure.
Major Players in the Space Tourism Race
The era of private space tourism officially dawned 60 years after Yuri Gagarin’s historic flight. Several ambitious companies are now leading the charge, each with unique approaches.
Virgin Galactic
Founded by Richard Branson in 2004, Virgin Galactic focuses on suborbital spaceflights. Branson himself rocketed over 50 miles above the New Mexico desert in 2021, marking a major milestone for the company. They boast a long waiting list for hopeful space tourists, with an initial deposit of £200,000 to secure your spot.
SpaceX
Elon Musk’s SpaceX made history in 2020 by becoming the first private company to launch astronauts into orbit. This wasn’t just a win for SpaceX, but a major leap forward for NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, fostering public-private partnerships in space exploration.
Blue Origin
Led by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Blue Origin is another major player in suborbital space tourism. Bezos successfully completed an 11-minute spaceflight in 2021 aboard his New Shepard spacecraft, showcasing the progress Blue Origin is making.
Bonus: A Glimpse of Space Hospitality
Orion Span, a U.S. space travel company, has ambitious plans for a private space station named Aurora Station. This orbiting “space hotel” aims to accommodate up to six guests and offers a unique spacefaring experience. Though still in the development stage, Orion Span has reportedly sold-out reservations for stays, with the initial cost exceeding £7 million.
In a Nutshell
As of 2024, space tourism is no longer a futuristic dream. Several successful missions have taken place, with companies constantly innovating and refining their offerings. While safety regulations and accessibility remain areas for ongoing discussion, the future of space tourism looks bright.
This burgeoning industry not only unlocks incredible experiences for space enthusiasts, but also fosters technological advancements with potential benefits for Earth. However, responsible development and regulations are crucial to ensure the safety of space travelers and our planet.
