Space Perspective, a Florida-based company, is now allowing reservations for its “Spaceship Neptune,” a balloon-borne pressurized capsule designed to carry eight passengers and one pilot to an altitude of 100,000 feet (30,000 meters). The cost is $125,000 per seat. Passengers will experience approximately six hours aboard the capsule, ascending above 99% of Earth’s atmosphere to observe the planet against the backdrop of space.
The Spaceship Neptune offers a low-impact and relatively luxurious experience, with gentle ascent due to the balloon, avoiding high G-forces associated with rocket launches. The capsule features reclining seats, panoramic windows, a refreshments bar, a bathroom, and other amenities.
Space Perspective plans to commence commercial operations by the end of 2024 and recently conducted its first test flight using a full-size Spaceship Neptune simulator. The uncrewed test flight lasted six hours and 39 minutes, reaching a maximum altitude of 108,409 feet (33,043 meters) and successfully splashing down in the Gulf of Mexico.
The company aims to provide a safe and extensive test flight campaign, emphasizing that Spaceship Neptune does not technically reach space, which is typically defined as lying 50 to 62 miles above Earth’s surface. The test flight carried various scientific payloads, including entries from a science project competition for students and an ozone-sensing instrument from the University of Northern Florida.
Competing with other space tourism companies like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin, Space Perspective distinguishes itself by offering a more extended and leisurely experience, although at a lower altitude than its competitors. The pricing, at $125,000 per seat, is also comparatively more accessible than some alternatives in the space tourism market.
