World View has launched its spaceflight capsule prototype. This announcement comes on the heels of its entry into the space tourism sector and the appointment of Dale Hipsh as president of tourism and exploration. Spaceflight participants awaiting the launch of commercial flights beginning in 2024 are provided a first look at the World View experience.
The space capsule is shaped like a faceted hexagon with softened edges and a pearlescent white finish, which also offers thermal management properties. Its large elliptical windows are approximately 6.5 feet wide and 4.5 feet high. When seats are in a reclined position, the sky window on top of the capsule provides passengers an exciting line of sight to the balloon lifting them as well as constellations upon reaching float altitude.
The capsule is climate-controlled and pressurized. Its interiors are designed to maximize space, allowing spaceflight participants to move freely and comfortably about the capsule. World View is committed to sustainability, so care is being taken to ensure materials are sourced from sustainable vendors whenever possible and options for re-use or recycling are also being explored.
Ergonomic seating for eight passengers is configured in pairs, with an additional pair designated for crew. Amenities include a cocktail table, graphical user interface (GUI) screen, central console, personal storage and beverage holder. Each capsule is outfitted with an on-board telescope, as well as streaming and mobile communication capabilities to stay in touch with loved ones back on Earth. Participants will also enjoy gourmet custom dining options and a selection of beverages throughout their flight.
Projected lift off is scheduled before dawn, providing participants a view of the sunrise over the Earth. Along the journey, passengers will take in the curvature of the Earth, thin blue line of the atmosphere, vast darkness of space and constellations. There will be no turbulence as on an airplane flight. So they can stand and move about the craft shortly after launch. The onboard crew, including one pilot and one concierge, serve as both Earth and space guides, cross-trained in flight operations, hospitality and medical support.
World View’s space tourism program will launch commercial flights in 2024 with voyages taking off from the Grand Canyon and Great Barrier Reef. Flights will lift passengers in a zero-pressure stratospheric balloon and pressurized space capsule to 100,000 feet altitude—nearly 23 miles above Earth—for an experience that will last six to eight hours.
For more information, visit worldview.space.
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