Saudi Arabia to launch stratosphere space tourism by 2026

Friday, March 22, 2024

In a move poised to revolutionize the global tourism industry, Saudi Arabia is set to become a hub for space tourism, providing adventurers the chance to venture into the stratosphere by 2026. This groundbreaking initiative, offered at a cost of $164,000 per person, is being facilitated by Halo Space, a Madrid-based pioneer in the field of space tourism founded in 2021.

The company has chosen Saudi Arabia as one of its prime departure points, with a scheduled test flight in June marking a significant milestone ahead of commercial operations. This test flight, which has received conditional approval from Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space & Technology Commission, will be Halo Space’s sixth, reaching an altitude of 32km above the Earth.

The journeys into the stratosphere will be undertaken aboard an aerospace balloon equipped with a pressurized capsule, designed to accommodate eight passengers and a pilot. This capsule, notable for its expansive panoramic windows, promises passengers a 360-degree view of the Earth below, making for an awe-inspiring experience of the planet’s vast beauty.

With plans to launch commercial flights by 2026 and aiming for 400 annual flights by 2029, Halo Space is set to offer a unique travel experience lasting four to six hours, including one to two hours at the journey’s peak altitude. This segment of the flight will allow passengers to observe the Earth’s curvature against the backdrop of space.

Halo Space’s flights are distinguished by their gentle ascent, propelled by helium balloons, which eliminates the need for intense acceleration or exposure to high G-forces. This feature ensures the flights are accessible to a wide range of participants without the necessity for rigorous training.

The introduction of such an innovative form of tourism in Saudi Arabia aligns with the Kingdom’s broader ambitions to diversify its economy and enhance its appeal as a leading travel destination. This venture into space tourism not only underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to pioneering in the realm of travel but also promises to attract a new wave of international tourists eager for the ultimate adventure.

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