10 Private Space Exploration Ventures Revolutionizing Our Cosmic Future

4. Virgin Galactic: Suborbital Experiences for All

If you’re dreaming of donning a flight suit, strapping in, and seeing the curve of our planet with your own eyes, Virgin Galactic wants to make it happen. Richard Branson’s company has carved out a niche in suborbital space tourism with their uniquely designed SpaceShipTwo craft—a winged rocket plane that’s almost as iconic as the white suit Branson wears for flights. Virgin Galactic’s path to commercial flights for everyday adventurers hasn’t been the smoothest, but they’ve powered through technical challenges, regulatory hurdles, and mountains of public interest. Already, a handful of ticket holders have soared to the edge of space and back in about the time it takes to finish a double feature. Although tickets come with a hefty price tag (for now), the vision is clear: to turn ordinary people into astronauts, no matter their background or day job. Who’s up for a window seat to the stars?