The textbook launch, landing, and retrieval means Space Perspective is moving closer to becoming the world's first space-balloon tourism company.
Space Perspective has made the first successful full test of its 700-foot-long space balloon and eight-person capsule. The hydrogen-filled balloon and capsule rose 100,000 feet to the edge of space and then splashed down in the Gulf of Mexico during the six-hour test. A milestone for the space tourism company, this initial test proved the concept works. It will now need to undergo successive unpiloted and piloted tests.
The company, based on Florida’s space coast, is charging $125,000 for a seat on its eight-person Spaceship Neptune capsule. With a diameter of 16 feet (4.9 m), this spacious spherical capsule is designed to comfortably host eight paying customers, along with a Captain. The capsule has several amenities, including the world's first Space Lounge with wifi and a restroom, plus large vertical windows for panoramic views.
The initial flight was more than just a test: It was also the first time its MS Voyager ship was used. The vessel was designed for launching and retrieving the balloon and capsule at sea, rather than blasting off on land. The launch-and-retrieval vessel is the only one of its kind in the burgeoning space-balloon business to operate on water. Its space tourism competitors will launch and land from land.
The company says it has raised $100 million from investors and currently has more than 1,800 ticket holders for its flights, which should begin commercial operation in 2026.