Always dreamed of venturing into the cosmos? The good news is, space travel is becoming increasingly accessible. With companies like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin paving the way, the possibility of purchasing a ticket to space is rapidly becoming a reality for civilians.
Whether you envision yourself on a commercial space flight, training as a professional astronaut, or even considering a unique memorial journey, there are diverse avenues to experience the wonders of space travel. Let’s explore the different ways you can make your dream of reaching for the stars come true – with some options surprisingly affordable.
Becoming a Space Tourist: Options and Costs
In the realm of space travel, having substantial financial resources definitely opens doors. While some space flights can command prices exceeding $55 million, depending on the mission’s complexity (according to Forbes), let’s explore your options if you possess the necessary capital and a strong desire to journey beyond Earth.
Suborbital Space Tourism: A Taste of Weightlessness
Suborbital space tourism offers a tantalizing glimpse of space, crossing the boundary but lacking the velocity for sustained orbit. Virgin Galactic, a pioneer in this field, commenced reservations for future flights at just under $450,000. These flights offer a brief period of weightlessness, with Virgin Galactic’s initial crewed flight providing approximately 4 minutes of this unique experience. The question of whether this flight officially reached the recognized boundary of space has even been debated.
For a more budget-conscious approach, World View offers 6-8 hour space flights at $50,000 per ticket, with a $500 deposit. These flights, scheduled to commence in 2024, take off from various locations worldwide. Although suborbital, World View’s crafts reach the “Near Space” region and are classified as spacecraft by the Federal Aviation Administration due to their high altitudes. While you won’t experience prolonged zero-gravity, you’ll witness the Earth’s curvature against the blackness of space, similar to views seen from the International Space Station.
Orbital Space Tourism: A Multi-Day Adventure
While readily available tickets remain elusive, orbital space travel for the public is drawing closer. Companies like SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, and Blue Origin are key players to watch. Though these flights will undoubtedly come with a significant price tag, the extended duration (potentially lasting days) may make space an appealing holiday destination for those with the means.
Experiencing the International Space Station
For an unparalleled space tourism experience, consider a stay on the International Space Station (ISS). A ticket aboard Axiom Mission 1, which included a stay at the ISS, reportedly cost $55 million. This is a premium option for those seeking an unforgettable journey beyond Earth.
Simulating Space: The Vomit Comet Experience
For those seeking a zero-gravity experience without the actual space travel price tag, reduced-gravity aircraft, like NASA’s “Vomit Comet,” offer a compelling alternative. These aircraft simulate the weightlessness of space, providing the sensation of a real space flight for a fraction of the cost.
These experiences are open to the public, with prices starting around £4000. Keep in mind the aircraft’s nickname – “Vomit Comet” – and consider this option carefully if you are prone to motion sickness.
Memorial Spaceflight: Scattering Ashes Among the Stars
Consider a unique and poignant journey to space by having your ashes scattered among the stars. Companies like Aura Flights specialize in memorial spaceflights, offering a breathtaking final journey for you or your loved ones.
While this option doesn’t provide a personal space experience in the traditional sense, it’s a beautiful and affordable way to have your remains travel around the globe for months before returning to Earth as snowflakes, symbolizing your continued presence with loved ones.
Building Your Own Space Agency: A Bold Venture
For the truly ambitious, starting your own space agency offers the ultimate path to space. This requires significant knowledge, planning, a dedicated team, and substantial financial investment.
You’ll need to assemble a team of experts, secure funding, invest in infrastructure (spacecraft, launch vehicles, ground support systems), and establish partnerships with other organizations. Regulatory compliance and adherence to international agreements are also crucial.
Joining the Space Force: A Military Path to Space
The United States Space Force (USSF) is the space-focused branch of the US Armed Forces. While joining the USSF might appeal to those interested in space and military service, it’s not a direct path to space travel. Members of the Space Force seeking to become astronauts must still compete for a spot in NASA’s astronaut corps.
Becoming a Trained Astronaut: A Challenging but Rewarding Path
Training to become an astronaut presents a demanding but fulfilling route to space. While not a simple undertaking, it offers the opportunity to journey to space and contribute to scientific advancement.
Applicants generally need to be between 27 and 37 years old and possess a strong academic background, including undergraduate and master’s degrees in a STEM field (engineering, physics, mathematics, or medicine). While piloting experience is beneficial, adaptability, trustworthiness, tenacity, and attention to detail are crucial qualities.
NASA astronaut Anne McClain emphasizes that passion is key, advising aspiring astronauts to pursue activities they genuinely love. Even meeting all requirements doesn’t guarantee selection, as the competition is fierce.
The Future of Space Travel: A Glimpse into Tomorrow
Space travel, once confined to science fiction, is rapidly becoming a tangible reality. The emergence of commercial space flights, even if currently accessible primarily to the wealthy, signifies a significant leap forward. As technology advances and costs decrease, the prospect of more affordable space travel for a wider population moves closer to realization.
