It turns out you dont need a rocket to explore the edge of space.
French startupZephaltohas just announced plans to send eager tourists to the stratosphere in a space balloon by 2025.
40% off TNW Conference!
However, the company expects to hit the target height in a test flight later this year.
Crewed high-altitude balloons are not a novel idea.
Space PerspectiveandWorldview, both US-based, are also developing their own versions of the technology.
They both plan to launch even earlier than Zephalto, in 2024.
Spanish startupZero2Infinityis also developing a space balloon although it has yet to announce a launch date.
Firstly, theyre a lot cheaper.
Passengers must undergo significant training and medical checks before even thinking of boarding one.
However, Zephalto says that anyone healthy enough to fly on an airliner can board a space balloon.
All this equates to what could become a more sustainable and accessible alternative to rocket-based space tourism.
Lift-off could take place in two years time if all goes to plan.
Story bySion Geschwindt
Sion is a freelance science and technology reporter, specialising in climate and energy.
Also tagged with
