Space Perspective’s recently unveiled Neptune capsule stands in stark contrast to the typical space capsules we’re accustomed to. Instead of the usual cramped confines dominated by blinking displays and essential systems, this innovative capsule resembles more of a luxurious lounge or upscale club. Outfitted with custom recliners, a fully stocked bar, and expansive windows designed for optimal viewing pleasure, the Neptune capsule promises an unparalleled and comfortable journey into the cosmos.
The ambitious space tourism company, Space Perspective, is on the verge of transitioning its groundbreaking concept into reality, with the aim of conducting its inaugural manned mission later this year. The Neptune capsule, boasting a 16-foot diameter sphere and an internal volume of 2,000 cubic feet, has been dubbed the “largest-size human launch spacecraft in operation” by the Florida-based firm. According to their claims, it surpasses the size of Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo and Blue Origin’s New Shepard by approximately twofold, while dwarfing SpaceX’s Crew Dragon by a factor of four.
Setting itself apart from traditional rocket-based modes of transport, Space Perspective’s capsule is destined for tourist flights to the edge of space. Although its altitude ceiling of 100,000 feet falls short of the supersonic speeds achieved by competitors like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin, who approach 264,000 feet, the capsule’s unique propulsion system involves a giant space balloon, facilitating a leisurely ascent and descent at around 12 mph over the course of the approximately six-hour trip. Notably, other contenders such as Zephalto and World View are also exploring similar balloon and capsule tourism concepts.
The transformation of Space Perspective’s concept into a functional capsule prototype, designated for equipment testing rather than passenger transport, entailed an intricate process. Tens of thousands of computations were employed, an in-house composite manufacturing facility was established, and an aesthetically pleasing yet robust interior was meticulously crafted to withstand the impact of ocean splashes during capsule landings.
The capsule’s flooring, a critical component, must endure both the shock of water landings and the vibrancy of celebratory moments, such as participants dancing and enjoying cocktails while marveling at Earth’s curvature at altitude. The engineering of the windows presented its own set of challenges, addressing concerns about visibility in intense sunlight on the edge of space and understanding how participants would interact with the views. Ultimately, the seating arrangement was designed in two semicircles, fostering interaction among passengers.
In the upcoming four to six weeks, the capsule is scheduled for extensive ground testing before embarking on its first test flight, simulating future commercial flights’ altitude and conditions. The testing phase involves recovery operations by the MS Voyager ship, which also serves as the launchpad and houses a mission control facility for 42 individuals. With instrumentation racks, temperature monitors, and strain monitors in place, the capsule is well-equipped for data collection during these tests.
Following necessary modifications based on test outcomes, the subsequent test capsule will be configured for human testing, complete with a finished luxurious interior. While a specific timeline for commercial flights remains undisclosed, the company’s co-founder, MacCallum, suggests that these could potentially take place in 2025, contingent upon the successful demonstration of safety for commercial flight.
Space Perspective envisions a future where it conducts multiple flights per week along the Florida coast from its Cape Canaveral headquarters, with aspirations to establish facilities in various parts of the world. The company’s latest announcement reveals that it has already secured over 1,600 seats, translating to approximately $200 million in sales, and successfully closed its latest round of investment efforts, indicating substantial support and enthusiasm from existing investors.
