Sir Richard Branson is set to embark on another space adventure, this time co-piloting the world’s first commercial stratospheric balloon flight. After making history in 2021 as the first billionaire to reach space, the Virgin Group co-founder will now join Space Perspective on its groundbreaking space balloon journey, scheduled for 2025.
Branson’s New Space Balloon Mission
Branson will be onboard a pressurized capsule, towed by a stratospheric balloon 20 miles above Earth. This high-altitude journey will take him beyond the atmosphere, an area never reached by a commercial balloon before. Alongside Branson, Space Perspective co-founders Jane Poynter and Taber MacCallum will act as co-pilots on this extraordinary mission.
Branson’s love for ballooning is well-documented—he holds world records for crossing the Atlantic Ocean in 1987 and the Pacific Ocean in 1991. Speaking on this new mission, Branson said, “Some of the most magnificent experiences of my life have happened on ballooning expeditions, and I’m excited to support Space Perspective in its journey.”
How Does the Space Balloon Work?
The Spaceship Neptune capsule, attached to a massive space balloon nearly as tall as the Eiffel Tower, will ascend 20 miles into the stratosphere. Filled with hydrogen at launch, the balloon will lift the capsule at a gentle pace of 12 miles per hour. After reaching its target altitude, the passengers will float above the atmosphere, experiencing the total blackness of space and the stunning blue curve of Earth.
A successful uncrewed test flight was conducted in September 2023, following the same flight trajectory, ensuring the system’s safety and functionality.
Luxurious Space Travel at $125,000 Per Seat
Space Perspective’s first commercial flight is expected to take place in 2025. The Spaceship Neptune capsule will offer seats for eight passengers, each paying $125,000 for a six-hour journey. Travelers will enjoy food, drinks, high-speed WiFi, and jaw-dropping views of the Earth from 20 miles above.
The flight will consist of two hours of unparalleled views from the stratosphere, where passengers will witness the vast blackness of space and the thin blue line of Earth’s atmosphere. The remaining four hours will be dedicated to the capsule’s ascent and descent back to Earth.
With over 1,800 reservations already made, Space Perspective is set to offer a unique and luxurious space experience that is poised to redefine space tourism.
Branson’s Role and Future Space Exploration
In addition to being a co-pilot, Branson is also an investor in Space Perspective, which aims to revolutionize space travel. His support will help accelerate the company’s development and test flight program.
As the space tourism industry continues to evolve, Space Perspective’s innovative approach with stratospheric balloon flights offers a more accessible and sustainable way for people to experience the wonders of space.