In a quest to dominate the stratospheric-space race, three companies, two American and one French, are vying for the ultimate in luxury space travel by adorning their capsules with opulent features. Their endeavors have resulted in designs that comprise massive space balloons and pressurized capsules, all set to soar to approximately 20 miles above Earth during six-hour journeys. As the first commercial space-balloon flights prepare for launch next year, these companies are in a fierce competition to provide unparalleled space tourism experiences.
Unlike current flights to the Karman line, regarded as the edge of space and offered by companies like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin, space-balloon trips are set to offer significantly longer journeys. These traditional spaceflights, lasting merely nine to 11 minutes, provide a brief taste of zero-gravity and an iconic space suit as the sole perk.
Bucking this trend, Zephalto has made a bold declaration by offering onboard dining experiences crafted by Michelin-starred chefs, enhancing their $127,000-per-ticket voyage aboard the Céleste capsule. During this six-hour voyage, passengers will luxuriate in three hours at the highest point of the trip, granting them unmatched views of our planet and the edge of space before their descent back to Earth.
The innovative three-cabin space capsule, designed by Joseph Dirand Architecture, aspires to be the world's "smallest experience-led hotel." Joseph Dirand himself stated, "Design is about shaping experiences, and this experience will shape people's lives. I hope that our guests will return to Earth with new perspectives towards our precious planet and how to protect it better."
Zephalto is yet to unveil the Michelin chef behind these gourmet experiences, but they have already conducted three test flights with pilots on board, demonstrating their commitment to delivering an exceptional culinary journey.
In the same race, U.S. competitor Space Perspective plans to launch Spaceship Neptune commercially in late 2024. This ambitious venture promises a lavish interior, featuring an open-lounge design, complete with recliners for a pilot and seven passengers, each paying $125,000. The capsule will also offer a bar, gourmet cuisine, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a delightful journey for space tourists.
Recognizing the importance of human needs during a six-hour spaceflight, Space Perspective has announced an innovative "Space Spa" bathroom. This facility features enhanced "sound and odor" control and its own windows, resolving concerns about in-flight amenities. Jane Poynter, Space Perspective's founder and co-CEO, reassured passengers by confirming the availability of proper restrooms, providing a unique and accessible experience.
World View, another player in this space race, aims to offer space tourism at a significantly lower price point. Priced at just $50,000 per ticket, their eight-person capsule seats will be a more affordable option, enticing a broader range of space travelers. In a testament to the widespread appeal of this endeavor, the company has already sold over 1,600 tickets, amounting to roughly $200 million in sales.
World View plans to operate 500 to 700 flights per year, significantly expanding the scope of space-tourism experiences. Their decision to provide a budget-friendly option sets them apart in the luxury space travel sector.
This race for luxury space travel reflects an industry poised to redefine the boundaries of human exploration, promising breathtaking views and experiences that were once unimaginable.
Source: Robb Report