Following the much-publicized success of Project Apollo, the demand to take more people to the outer space for recreation has grown steadily. Space tourism became a reality when the first space tourist, Dennis Tito, traveled and enjoyed eight days in outer space aboard ISS. But this was only the beginning.
Between 2001 and 2009, seven people traveled to space for recreation. Although no other visit has been made since 2009, space tourism has changed completely. This post takes a closer look at the key reasons making space travel the future of tourism.
More Companies are Offering Space Tourism Services
Unlike the early 2000s, when only one company, Space Adventures, was successful in its efforts to take tourists to space, a lot of companies have joined the niche. Indeed, they have diversified the idea of space travel and are now offering more diversified services. Well, it appears that things are only getting started and the future could be far more enjoyable. Here are some of the main companies that have entered the industry.
- Virgin Galactic.
- Space Adventures.
- Orion Span.
- Blue Origin.
- Aurora Space Station.
The Cost is Coming Down
One of the key barriers that stand on the way of space tourism is cost. For example, the first group of space tourists paid a lot of money that others would find so difficult to raise. For example, some of the early visitors such as Anousheh Ansari and Cirque du Soleil paid around $20 million each. But the cost has significantly come down and is expected to continue falling as the competition heats up. For example, Virgin Galactic is charging its tourists from $250,000 upwards. In the future, traveling to space is expected to be available to all.
Safety of Visitors is assured
The safety of space tourism is of paramount importance. Indeed, it was one of the reasons why many visitors had paused thoughts of ever traveling to space. But with the first several missions having been completed safely, the notion of safety is now assured.
Most space companies run multiple tests to ensure they offer non-fail space travel missions. This assurance is winning trust not just from the people, but authorities too. This is why more companies are getting authorized to offer the services.
The Demand Growing
Every moment that you listen to the experiences of people who traveled to space, there is an irresistible urge to go for a similar thrill. Take the example of spacewalking thrill. These experiences are driving the current insatiable demand to go to space. With the demand for space tourism rising, the industry can only grow.
Space tourism is experiencing exponential growth, and it is just a matter of time before space becomes the ultimate destination. If you had not thought of traveling to space, it is time to consider it!
