HALO Space gears up for groundbreaking test flight in Saudi Arabia this June

Monday, March 18, 2024

HALO Space, a leading company in the near space tourism sector, has revealed plans for its sixth test flight to take place in Saudi Arabia this June, pending approval from the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST)—the regulatory body for space activities in Saudi Arabia. This event marks a crucial step for both the company and the industry, as it will be the first instance where all the technologies behind HALO Space’s zero-emission flight are tested simultaneously, an achievement unparalleled by any other company in the field. The upcoming test will feature the launch of HALO’s second full-scale prototype capsule to a height of 32 kilometers above the Earth, further advancing their ambitions in stratospheric commercial flights.

“As the most advanced near space company in the sector in terms of technical development, safety is our top priority, which is why we’ve consistently tested each system that makes up our flight program,” said HALO Space CEO Carlos Mira. “We are on a mission to make space travel more safe, accessible and affordable. This test will rigorously validate the integrated operation of all critical systems, bringing us one step closer to our goal.”

HALO is set to launch its commercial flight services in 2026, with ticket prices starting at $164,000—a cost significantly lower than that of existing orbital and suborbital space travel options. Their goal is to enable 10,000 individuals to venture into space within this decade to witness the Overview Effect, the profound experience of seeing the Earth’s curvature and its delicate blue aura.

“To see the darkness of space against the blue marble is almost a religious experience,” said Mira. “I’ve spoken with several astronauts about the feeling of profound transformation when you view the Overview Effect. Everyone should get the chance to see our home from such a view.”

The ascent powered by a helium balloon is smooth and gradual, eliminating the intense acceleration and G-forces associated with traditional space flights. This makes HALO flights accessible to almost anyone without the necessity for specialized training. With a flight duration of 4-6 hours, including 1-2 hours at the peak altitude of up to 35 kilometers, passengers are afforded ample time to enjoy panoramic views of Earth through much larger windows than those found on conventional aircraft or spacecraft.

Furthermore, HALO Space is dedicated to making space travel accessible to those who dream of it but are deterred by financial constraints. They are in the process of creating a program aimed at breaking down the financial barriers to space travel, enabling more people to experience the journey.

“The most successful companies have the best teammates and partners, which is why we are grateful for the privilege to work with some incredible names in the space sector who have decades of experience,” said HALO Space CTO Alberto Castrillo. “We are conscious that as pioneers in this nascent category of near space tourism we must contribute to build solid pillars for the safe development of this industry.”

HALO’s flight program, encompassing the pressurized capsule, balloon, and all related operational systems, is under the guidance of seasoned engineers boasting more than three decades of professional expertise.

In collaboration with aeronautical and space authorities across the U.S., Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Spain, HALO is establishing year-round bases in these countries. These locations were selected for their favorable meteorological conditions, geographical features, and airspace, which are ideal for conducting safe near-space stratospheric flights. HALO sets a stringent safety standard, aiming for a catastrophic failure probability of less than 1 in 100 million. To meet these safety requirements, the company ensures system redundancy by developing duplicate backup systems for any that do not meet the requisite safety levels.

“It is magnificent to see our vision of making space flight more accessible come to life,” said Mira. “To prove our concept and showcase all systems working together will signal to the world that near space tourism with HALO Space is ready for lift off.”

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