Space Perspective, a company aiming to offer luxurious high-altitude balloon flights to the edge of space, has successfully completed a crucial test flight of its Neptune capsule. The hydrogen-powered craft launched from Florida’s Marine Spaceport Voyager on September 15th, spending four hours ascending to the stratosphere. According to the company’s press release, the capsule maintained cabin pressure and stability throughout the flight before descending for a splashdown. This mission, designated Development Flight 2, marked the first time the actual Neptune capsule reached its maximum altitude. A previous test involved a lighter mockup.
Space Perspective Neptune LaunchThe Neptune capsule ascending during the test flight. Credit: Space Perspective
Reaching New Heights in Atmospheric Tourism
While Space Perspective frequently uses the term “space,” the Neptune capsule doesn’t actually reach outer space. During the test, it ascended to approximately 100,000 feet (30,000 meters). This altitude offers breathtaking views of the Earth’s curvature and surpasses the cruising altitude of commercial jets by more than double. However, it remains significantly below the Kármán Line, the internationally recognized boundary of space, situated at 62 miles (100 kilometers).
Competitive Landscape and Pricing
Space Perspective isn’t alone in the near-space tourism market. Japanese company Iwaya Giken unveiled its own high-altitude balloon vehicle in February 2023, also targeting tourists eager to experience the Earth’s atmosphere. However, Iwaya Giken’s offering presents a significant drawback: extremely cramped conditions for a several-hour trip priced at $180,000.
In comparison, Space Perspective’s Neptune offers a seemingly more attractive proposition. A ticket on the Neptune is priced at $125,000, a figure that has remained consistent since the company’s initial announcement in 2021.
A Luxurious Journey to the Stratosphere
Beyond the price difference, Neptune boasts a significantly more luxurious experience. Concept art showcases panoramic windows, a stylish interior, a climate-controlled cabin, Wi-Fi, and even martinis. The capsule also features a luxury toilet, described by a staff member as providing the “ultimate kind of selfie experience.”
Space Perspective Neptune Retrieval BalloonSpecialists retrieving the Neptune capsule after splashdown. Credit: Space Perspective
Alternative Options and Future Outlook
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, World View offers another alternative. In 2021, World View announced plans for balloon flights starting at $50,000, although these have yet to commence.
All these balloon-based space tourism options are considerably more affordable than rocket-powered alternatives, which can cost tens of millions of dollars. Space Perspective reports over 1,800 tickets sold for the Neptune experience. The company has adjusted its initial timeline and now aims to conduct its first crewed flights in 2025, with commercial operations beginning in 2026. This successful test flight brings them one step closer to realizing their vision.
