UNITED STATES: Virgin Galactic achieved remarkable feats on its second-ever commercial space mission, setting a new standard in spaceflight records. The mission, named “Galactic 02,” was conducted on August 10 and saw the successful suborbital journey of six individuals, marking a significant milestone for space tourism.
The extraordinary voyage garnered attention for multiple reasons. Notably, the crew composition showcased diversity and groundbreaking achievements. Four women were aboard, making it the most women on a single spaceflight in history.
While four women were in Earth’s orbit simultaneously in 2010, they were on separate missions. Of the six passengers, three were private citizens, each carving their own unique place in space history.
The flight introduced the first mother-daughter duo to space, with the younger member, Anastatia Mayers, becoming the youngest-ever space flyer.
Additionally, the team welcomed the first former Olympian into space, 80-year-old Jon Goodwin, who has Parkinson’s disease but remains determined to pursue his dreams.
Virgin Galactic’s air-launch system propelled the VSS Unity spaceplane to suborbital heights, riding atop the twin-fuselage carrier aircraft VMS Eve.
Following a rocket engine ignition at approximately 50,000 feet, the Unity reached a maximum speed of Mach 3 and a peak altitude of 55 miles before smoothly touching down at Spaceport America.
The mission also marked Virgin Galactic’s first private astronaut journey, setting the stage for more regular space travel for civilians.
The success of “Galactic 02” boosts the company’s plans for monthly flights, and the forthcoming “Delta class” of space planes is anticipated to further accelerate the frequency of spaceflights.
Reflecting on the achievement, Sirisha Bandla, who was part of Virgin Galactic’s previous spaceflight, noted, “G 02 is a flight for the history books.” The spacefaring endeavour showcased not only technological prowess but also the boundless human spirit that propels individuals to overcome challenges and journey to the stars.
As Virgin Galactic continues to push boundaries, the future of space tourism inches closer to becoming a routine reality where ordinary people can partake in the extraordinary experience of space travel.
Also Read: Virgin Galactic Successfully Completes First Commercial Space Mission, Opens New Frontiers
