What Next?
To take the next step, please contact us for further details. You can make your reservation now, request a brochure, or speak with a sales agent via any of the following:
| Email Addresses: |
flight-suborbital@spaceadventures.com for more information about this exciting program |
| info@spaceadventures.com for general information about the company, or to reach an individual at the company whose address you don't know | |
| Phone Numbers: | 888-85-SPACE Fax: 703-524-7176 Outside the US: 703-524-7172 |
| Mailing Address: | Space Adventures, Ltd. 4350 Fairfax Drive, Suite 840 Arlington, Virginia 22203 |
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Frequently Asked Questions about Suborbital Spaceflight
What is suborbital spaceflight?
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When a vehicle reaches space but does not achieve orbital velocity, it follows a parabolic arc and is said to have achieved suborbital spaceflight. Space Adventures' suborbital spaceflights reach an altitude of at least 62 miles (100 kilometers), which is internationally defined by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), the world's air sports federation, as the beginning of space. Suborbital spaceflights were first conducted by Alan Shepard and Virgil "Gus" Grissom in 1961 when they became the first two Americans in space.
When will the flights begin?
Passenger flights are expected to begin in 2006. Vehicle flight tests have already begun.
Is suborbital spaceflight safe?
All Space Adventures' vehicles will be tested and evaluated extensively, as well as certified by the aerospace regulatory commission for the country of operation (e.g. Federal Aviation Administration).
Where will the flights take off and land?
Launch and landing facilities will depend on vehicle specifications and regulatory codes currently being written. Several U.S. states and foreign countries have shown interest. The current leading potential launch sites are in North America.
What type of vehicle is going to be used for the suborbital flights?
Innovative reusable launch vehicles are currently being developed and tested by many forward thinking aerospace companies. Space Adventures has selected a subset of these vehicles that the company believes are the best designs and will be the first to become operational, yet the company is not limited to use of these vehicles.
Are special skills or training required?
Space Adventures is developing a four-day pre-flight training program for its clients. Though not included or required, we do recommend experiences such as a zero-gravity flight and centrifuge training so you can familiarize yourself with the forces encountered during spaceflight. No special skills are required, but participants should be in good overall health.
Has anyone made reservations for the flights yet?
We currently have more than 100 passengers registered with paid deposits or payment in full for the suborbital flight program.
Upon completion of the flight will I be an astronaut?
Yes. Astronaut is defined as someone trained to travel and perform tasks in space, so anyone who fits that description is indeed an astronaut. Your flight to space altitude will be documented and certified by the Space Adventures' Lifetime Spaceflight Club, plus all crews will be awarded official Space Adventures' astronaut wings. The birth of private human spaceflight will not only be about advances in space technology; it will also be a revolution in allowing individuals the chance to become private space explorers.
Why should I make a reservation in advance?
Making your reservation now allows you to secure your place in history as one of the first private space explorers. Now that actual vehicles are being tested and flown, demand is expected to increase with every successful flight. While you may be able to fly in space in your lifetime, there are only a limited number of history making spaceflights, a seat on which can be assured to you with a reservation from Space Adventures.
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