Reading
Virgin Galactic is at the forefront of commercial space travel, offering an exhilarating journey beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. This journey isn’t just about traveling to space; it’s about becoming an astronaut for a day.
The experience begins long before the actual flight. Space tourists undergo rigorous but adequate training to prepare them for zero gravity and to ensure they remain vigilant throughout their trip. This preparation is essential to maximize safety and enjoyment.
During the flight, passengers aboard Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo will be taken to the edge of space. The spacecraft is launched from a larger carrier plane, reaching an altitude where passengers can see the curvature of the Earth against the backdrop of space. At this point, they experience several minutes of weightlessness, floating freely in the cabin and viewing our planet from a perspective few have ever seen.
While it might seem irrelevant to discuss the interior design of the craft, every detail is carefully considered to enhance the astronaut experience. The cabin features large windows for an unobstructed view of the Earth and space, and cameras to capture every moment of the journey.
Currently, space tourism with Virgin Galactic is an exclusive adventure due to the high cost, but it’s a glimpse into what future widespread space travel might look like. As technology advances and costs decrease, more people will have the opportunity to experience this ultimate adventure.
Discussion Questions
- If the cost were not a concern, would you book a flight with Virgin Galactic? Why or why not?
- What do you think are the biggest challenges facing commercial space tourism today?
Interactive Activity
Watch the following video to see what the experience with Virgin Galactic could look like: Virgin Galactic – Overview