A company aiming to revolutionize space travel by making it more affordable is setting its sights on Dubai as a launch site.
Space Perspective, known for offering a unique space experience under a hydrogen balloon, plans to give travellers the opportunity to view iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Island from the edge of space.
The company’s vision is to create an unforgettable journey to the edge of space in a relaxed, pressure-controlled environment.
“Being able to launch over Palm Island and see the burst wave underneath, along with all these recognizable landmarks, this is one of the most beautiful areas we could launch from,” said Michael Savage, CEO of Space Perspective.
The Dubai location is part of an ambitious expansion plan for the company, which has already garnered considerable interest in the region. Roman Chiporukha, Co-Founder and CEO of SpaceVIP, a partner in this venture, shared that the company sees strong potential in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia.
“We have seen a lot of interest from this region. When we find the right partner, we are hoping to start operations from here,” he told Khaleej Times. Space Perspective is focused on making space travel accessible and affordable for a wider range of people.
The company’s approach contrasts with traditional rocket-powered space flights, which require intense physical training and experience with high G-forces.
Instead, Space Perspective offers a relaxing ride in a pressurized capsule, lifted to the edge of space by a hydrogen balloon. Passengers move at a leisurely 12 miles per hour during the ascent.
The six-hour ride is priced at approximately Dh460,000, with two hours spent reaching the edge of space and two hours at the peak, where passengers can enjoy breathtaking views.
The luxury capsule is equipped with large windows, allowing travellers to take in the vast expanse of space and Earth below, while indulging in a gourmet meal.
The capsule also features a restroom for added comfort during the journey. “We call it balloon, with a view,” said Savage.
Each Space Lounge capsule accommodates up to eight passengers and a captain, ensuring an intimate experience. Additionally, Roman worked to bring a Michelin-starred chef on board, making history by offering the first Michelin-star meal in space.
Space Perspective’s affordable pricing model and unique offering have already attracted significant interest. Roman Chiporukha shared that the company has sold 1,800 tickets, with a backlog of $225 million in demand.
“It’s not just millionaires and billionaires buying these tickets; many middle-class families are saving up to make this dream a reality,” he said. Some customers are even using their life savings to fund the experience.
“Many baby boomers who took their nest egg and decided they weren’t going to leave $500,000 to their kids because they’re going to space instead,” Chiporukha explained.
With the growing demand for space tourism, Space Perspective is poised to play a leading role in making space travel an accessible experience for more people, with Dubai potentially becoming a key hub for this exciting new venture.