Spaceflight has the unique ability to shift our perspectives, even our trajectory as a species. As the Spaceline for Earth, our mission at Virgin Galactic is purposeful and powerful – to transform access to space for the benefit of humankind. We intend to reveal the wonder of space to more people than ever before. Join us in pioneering this extraordinary New Space Age.
FIND YOUR SPACE IN HISTORY.
Fewer than 1,000 people have ever flown to space. As a Virgin Galactic Astronaut, you will become part of a new era of commercial space travel, where leaving Earth’s atmosphere is an experience no longer reserved for professional astronauts.
From the moment you join our global community of pioneering adventurers, to the day you earn your astronaut wings, to your post-flight years of telling the greatest story off planet Earth – your spaceflight will change your perspective and transform your life.
“Taking more and more passengers out into space will enable them, and us, to look both outwards and back, but with a fresh perspective in both directions.”
—Professor Stephen Hawking
As the Spaceline for Earth, we’re pleased to offer you a spaceflight system designed for safety, reusability and a superlative customer experience. You’ll be in the expert hands of our highly experienced pilots, all with extensive flight careers behind them.
Our hybrid-propulsion system combines the inherent stability of a solid rocket motor with the controllability of a liquid rocket motor. It is simpler and safer by design.
While in space, astronauts are free to leave their seats and float effortless in zero-g with a stunning view of Earth from the weightlessness of space.The famous floating sushi bar is also not to be missed!
While not training, you’ll enjoy all-inclusive accommodations and the facilities at the world’s first purpose-built commercial spaceport in New Mexico.
Among the highlights of your flight-day experience is a celebratory evening with family, friends and fellow Astronauts, complete with an Astronaut Wings ceremony to commemorate your achievement.
You will cherish special keepsakes, including your official Virgin Galactic Astronaut Wings, an extensive video and photo package, and your Virgin Galactic branded spacesuit.
Our unique and innovative Spaceflight System enables you and your fellow astronauts to enjoy the most thrilling and awe-inspiring journey of your life, in unparalleled comfort and ease.
When together, the Launch Vehicle and spaceship climb through the thickest parts of the atmosphere.
Around 45,000 feet, with final safety checks complete, the Launch Vehicle releases the spaceship. Shortly after, the spaceship’s hybrid rocket motor ignites.
Propelling vertically toward the stars, the spaceship quickly reaches speeds of 3x the speed of sound.
Once in space, astronauts are free to unbuckle and float about the spacious cabin for several minutes in the effortless freedom of zero gravity.
The spaceship’s tailbooms rotate in preparation for re-entry. The pilots orient the spaceship’s seventeen cabin windows for breathtaking views of Earth.
At nearly 300,000 feet, astronauts experience the majesty of space: a spectacular view of Earth, a precious blue jewel against the inky black of space.
The spaceship’s unique feathered configuration lets gravity do the work We come back belly first, minimizing the build up of heat, controlling stability and reducing speed by aerodynamic drag.
Once back in the thickest parts of the Earth’s atmosphere, the spaceship effortlessly glides back down to Spaceport America.
The spaceship touches down for a smooth runway landing, the same runway it took off from.
Our pre-flight Space Program consists of immersive events, activities, and training designed to prepare you physically, mentally and spiritually for space. Start to finish, you’ll be guided through every step to ensure your safety and comfort.
Our health screenings will verify you’re fit to fly, if you’re 18+. That’s why we have a detailed pre-flight medical questionnaire and checkup for all astronauts to ensure you’re good to go.
As you prepare for your trip to space, our Virgin Galactic team will support you during your completion of optional zero-g and centrifuge training and acclimatization.
