After completing its first test flight in 2021, Space Perspective announced it has successfully flown and landed its giant space balloon called “Spaceship Neptune-Excelsior.”
The goal is to offer passengers a luxurious space lounge experience, with a price tag of $125,000 for a journey to the edge of space.
According to Space Perspective, the images from the test flight were captured from the Spaceship Neptune-Excelsior as it ascended 100,000 feet into the sky.
The private space startup said the vehicle lifted off early Sunday morning, traveling at 12 miles per hour over a two-hour period, followed by a two-hour glide before splashing back down.
“You can see our hatch just on the edge of the capsule, where you can view not only the curvature of the earth but how dark space actually is,” said Space Perspective CEO Michael Savage.
Savage said the company has already sold about 1,800 tickets for future space flights aboard the Neptune-Excelsior. He believes the project appeals to the public because it offers a gentle way to experience space.
“Many people want to experience space. This is a way for people to experience space without six g’s forcing on their chest, going up in a rocket,” Savage said.
The space balloon, capable of carrying nine passengers, offers an experience complete with meals and drinks during the voyage.
Savage said there is a growing amount of opportunities for people to join the space industry along the Space Coast.
“There are a number of opportunities in all of these new space startups for young engineers, for people who are interested in marketing and sales. This is a breakthrough industry, and it’s not slowing down,” Savage said.
Space Perspective plans to conduct an additional five to eight test launches before sending humans into space. They expect to fly their first passengers by the end of 2025.
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