Blue Origin is getting ready to launch its 9th space tourism flight, called NS-28. It will carry six private space enthusiasts on a 10-minute suborbital journey. This mission is the 28th for Blue Origin’s New Shepard spacecraft.
It has taken a total of 47 people to the edge of space. This includes Jeff Bezos and three passengers who have flown twice.
The launch is set for this morning. It will be the 43rd time a crew crosses the Kármán line aboard New Shepard. You can watch the live stream on YouTube to see the excitement. The crew will experience microgravity for about three minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Blue Origin is launching its 9th space tourism flight, carrying 6 private crew members on a 10-minute suborbital journey.
- This will be the 28th flight of the New Shepard spacecraft, which has now carried 47 individuals to the edge of space.
- The upcoming launch will be the 43rd time a crew has crossed the Kármán line aboard the New Shepard.
- Viewers can watch the live stream on YouTube to see the crew experience weightlessness for about 3 minutes.
- Blue Origin’s space tourism program continues to make space accessible to civilian passengers.
Watch Blue Origin Launch its Latest Space Tourism Flight This Morning
Get ready for an exciting space adventure as Blue Origin launches its latest space tourism flight this morning. The NS-28 mission is highly anticipated. It will let viewers watch Blue Origin launch and see six space tourists soar above the Kármán line.
The flight is expected to last about 10 minutes. Passengers will feel the thrill of weightlessness in space. Then, they will safely return to Earth. This mission marks Blue Origin’s 28th successful space tourism flight.
Watch the live stream on YouTube to see the New Shepard spacecraft launch. It can reach nearly three times the speed of sound. The crew capsule will separate from the booster after two-and-a-half minutes. This lets passengers float freely during the weightless part of the journey.
Blue Origin’s space tourism flight is more than just an exciting ride. It shows the company’s dedication to making space accessible. With 28 New Shepard flights and nine with passengers, Blue Origin is breaking new ground in commercial space travel.
| Flight Details | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Blue Origin’s 9th space tourism flight | 6 space tourists launched |
| Passengers experienced about 3 minutes of weightlessness | 47 individuals have been launched to space by Blue Origin |
| New Shepard spacecraft reached nearly 3 times the speed of sound | Blue Origin has completed 28 New Shepard flights |
| Crew capsule separated from the booster about 2.5 minutes after liftoff | 9 flights with passengers onboard |
Don’t miss this incredible space journey. Tune in to the live stream and feel the excitement of watching Blue Origin launch its latest space tourism flight.
“The opportunity to experience weightlessness and see the curvature of the Earth is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
Meet the Diverse Crew of NS-28
The Blue Origin crew for the NS-28 mission is incredibly diverse. Leading the crew is Emily Calandrelli, known as the “Space Gal.” She’s an MIT grad and hosts science shows on Netflix and YouTube. Sharon and Marc Hagle are back for their second flight, having been on NS-20 in 2022.
There are also other civilian astronauts with unique stories. Austin Litteral won his spot in a giveaway. James (J.D.) Russell founded the Victoria Russell Foundation. Henry (Hank) Wolfond is an experienced pilot.
Emily Calandrelli – The Space Gal
Emily Calandrelli, a science communicator and host of popular science shows on Netflix and YouTube, is set to become the first space tourist to share her expertise and passion for space exploration with a global audience.
Sharon and Marc Hagle – Second-Time Flyers
Sharon and Marc Hagle are flying on Blue Origin’s New Shepard for the second time. They went on NS-20 in 2022. They’re excited to see the wonders of space again.
Additional Crew Members
- Austin Litteral, a giveaway winner, is eager to fulfill his lifelong dream of going to space.
- James (J.D.) Russell, the founder of the Victoria Russell Foundation, will bring his philanthropic spirit to the mission.
- Henry (Hank) Wolfond, an experienced fixed-wing aircraft and helicopter pilot, will add his aviation expertise to the crew.
This diverse crew of Blue Origin space tourists and civilian astronauts is ready for an amazing journey. They show how space travel is becoming more accessible to everyone.
New Shepard Spacecraft: Engineering Marvel
Blue Origin’s New Shepard is a reusable rocket for space tourism. It can take six people beyond Earth’s atmosphere at speeds over three times the sound of a bullet. The spacecraft is fully automated and has many safety features, including a tested crew escape system.
The rocket and capsule have shown great reliability. On November 18, 2024, Blue Origin’s ninth crewed flight reached 347,661 feet. Six people from different fields experienced weightlessness and stunning views of Earth.
Emily Calandrelli, a TV host and aerospace engineer, is training to be an astronaut with Blue Origin. She wants to encourage girls in STEM. In 2022, Sharon and Marc Hagle became the first married couple to fly on a commercial space vehicle.
“Preparation for a sub-orbital space flight is akin to preparing for the Olympics,” according to a science professor who made the trip.
The New Shepard’s engineering shows Blue Origin’s dedication to safety and making space travel accessible. As they lead in reusable rocket tech, New Shepard is a beacon for the future of space travel.
Inside the Space Tourism Experience
The New Shepard capsule, made by Blue Origin, is spacious and safe for six space tourists. It has huge windows, covering almost a third of its surface. This lets passengers see the Earth and space in amazing detail.
Window Views and Weightlessness
On the 10-minute flight, tourists will feel weightless for about three minutes. They can float around and see our planet from space. At the highest point, they’ll see the Earth’s curve against the dark of space.
Cabin Features and Comfort
The New Shepard’s inside is made for comfort and safety. Each seat has big windows for a clear view. The cabin stays at a comfortable temperature, making the trip enjoyable.
Flight Duration and Profile
The whole trip lasts about 11 minutes, from takeoff to landing. It includes a vertical launch, weightlessness, and a soft landing with parachutes. The capsule is designed to be safe and reliable.
Blue Origin aims to make space travel exciting and accessible. The New Shepard capsule and its features, along with the thrill of weightlessness, show the future of space travel.
Launch Site One: Blue Origin’s Texas Facility
In the heart of West Texas, the Blue Origin launch site is a wonder. It’s called “Launch Site One” and is near Van Horn. It offers amazing views of the Guadalupe Mountains, making the journey unforgettable.
The Astronaut Village is at the core of this site. It’s where crew members stay for two days of training. This village is cozy and welcoming, perfect for getting ready for space.
The launch site is a sight to behold. It has incredible sunrises, sunsets, and night skies. These sights, along with top-notch facilities, make the visit to the Blue Origin launch site in West Texas unforgettable.
Blue Origin focuses on safety and excellence at the Astronaut Village and launch site. This Texas facility shows their commitment to space tourism. It’s a place where dreams of space come true.
Training Program for Space Tourists
Blue Origin is getting ready to launch its latest space tourism flight. The company’s training program is key. It prepares space tourists for their adventure with a two-day course.
Two-Day Preparation Schedule
The training lasts just two days. It makes sure space tourists are ready for their trip to space. They learn everything about the New Shepard mission, from start to finish.
Safety Protocols and Simulations
Safety is top priority. Blue Origin’s training focuses on the spacecraft’s safety and emergency plans. Space tourists practice for different scenarios, building confidence for any situation.
Mission Profile Training
Learning the New Shepard’s mission is crucial. Space tourists discover the spacecraft’s path, microgravity, and Earth’s views from space. This knowledge helps them enjoy every part of their journey.
Blue Origin’s training shows the company’s dedication to safety and a great experience. This thorough preparation promises a memorable trip to the edge of space.
Blue Origin’s Space Tourism Achievement
Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, has made big steps in space tourism. They’ve done 28 New Shepard flights, with nine of them carrying people. This means 47 people have reached the edge of space, showing space travel is getting easier for everyone.
The NS-25 flight was a big deal. It had six people on board, including 90-year-old Ed Dwight. He became the oldest to reach space, going over 2,000 miles per hour.
But Blue Origin faced a big challenge in September 2022. A rocket failed during launch, and the FAA had to investigate. They found high temperatures caused an engine problem, destroying the rocket. Now, Blue Origin must fix 21 things before they can fly again.
Even with this setback, Blue Origin keeps pushing forward. Before the failure, they had 22 successful missions in a row. Six of those missions had famous people like Jeff Bezos and William Shatner on board.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total New Shepard Flights | 28 |
| Flights with Human Passengers | 9 |
| Total Individuals Flown to Space | 47 |
| Oldest Person to Reach Edge of Space | 90 years old |
| Top Speed Achieved | 2,000+ mph |
| Consecutive Successful Flights Before Failure | 22 |
Blue Origin’s work shows they’re serious about making space travel available to more people. As the field grows, their work is leading the way for more people to explore space.
The Kármán Line Experience
Blue Origin’s New Shepard spacecraft takes passengers on an exciting journey. They go beyond the Kármán line, 62 miles (100 km) above Earth. This flight lets space tourists see the Earth’s curve and the endless blackness of space.
Emily Calandrelli, from “Emily’s Wonder Lab,” said it was like seeing her children born. She felt a deep change in how she sees the universe and our planet.
| Key Milestones | Statistics |
|---|---|
| New Shepard Crewed Flights | 7 |
| Oldest Person to Reach Edge of Space | 90 (Ed Dwight) |
| Consecutive Successful Missions | 22 (before September 2022 failure) |
| Corrective Actions Required by FAA | 21 |
| Total Flight Duration | 11 minutes |
Blue Origin’s goal to reach the Kármán line shows their skill and commitment. They aim to give an unmatched suborbital flight experience. As they explore space tourism, more people can see the edge of space. This gives a new view of our planet and our role in the universe.
“The emotional impact of seeing the curvature of the Earth and the blackness of space was like witnessing the birth of my children. It’s a perspective-shifting experience that’s truly life-changing.”
– Emily Calandrelli, host of “Emily’s Wonder Lab”
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
As space tourism grows, Blue Origin is at the forefront of environmental care. Their New Shepard spacecraft shows their dedication to green space travel. Almost all of its parts, like the capsule and engine, can be reused.
The rocket’s engine burns fuel without releasing carbon, fitting Blue Origin’s aim to lessen space tourism’s environmental harm. This method is a beacon for eco-friendly space tourism, guiding towards a greener future.
The space economy is set to hit $1.8 trillion by 2035, growing 9% each year. Yet, the industry’s environmental impact is a big worry. Reusable rockets from Blue Origin and SpaceX are a positive step. But, we need more research to fully understand their effects on our atmosphere and climate.
As the space tourism market expands, with newcomers like Space Perspective and Voyager Space, the need for environmental care grows. The industry must focus on sustainability to make this new frontier last.
“The Overview Effect, when you see the Earth from space, it really changes your perspective on the planet and the environment. That’s why it’s so important for Blue Origin to lead the way in eco-friendly space tourism.”
Conclusion
Blue Origin’s latest space tourism flight shows the company’s success in making space accessible. More people get to see Earth from space, which changes them. Blue Origin keeps improving and growing, making space travel’s future bright.
Blue Origin has done 26 missions, with 8 crewed flights on New Shepard. The NS-26 mission set a record, sending six people to space and back. Karsen Kitchen, 21, and Oliver Daemen, 18, became the youngest to reach space.
Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket is ready to launch, aiming for more than just space tourism. It could carry a NASA satellite to Mars next year. With Vulcan Centaur, a NASA lander will soon head to the moon, showing space travel’s fast progress.
FAQ
What is the purpose of Blue Origin’s latest space tourism flight?
Blue Origin is launching its ninth space tourism flight, NS-28. It will carry six private crew members on a 10-minute suborbital journey. This mission marks the 28th flight in New Shepard’s history and will be the program’s 43rd human to cross the Kármán line.
How can I watch the live stream of the launch?
You can watch the NS-28 launch live on YouTube. It shows Blue Origin’s commitment to making space accessible to civilians.
Who are the crew members on this flight?
The NS-28 crew includes science communicator Emily Calandrelli, known as The Space Gal. Sharon and Marc Hagle are making their second flight. Austin Litteral won his seat in a giveaway. James (J.D.) Russell, founder of the Victoria Russell Foundation, and Henry (Hank) Wolfond, a fixed-wing aircraft and helicopter pilot, are also on board.
What are the key features of the New Shepard spacecraft?
New Shepard is Blue Origin’s reusable suborbital rocket system for space tourism. It can carry six passengers beyond the Kármán line at speeds over three times the speed of sound. It has a fully autonomous design and many safety systems, including a robust crew escape system.
What can passengers expect during the space tourism experience?
The New Shepard capsule offers a spacious, pressurized, and climate-controlled environment for six passengers. Large windows provide stunning views of Earth and space. Passengers experience about three minutes of weightlessness during the 10-minute flight, allowing them to float freely and gaze at Earth from space before returning under parachutes.
Where is the Blue Origin launch site located?
Launch Site One is located near Van Horn, Texas, in the Guadalupe Mountains. The facility includes Astronaut Village, where crew members stay during their two-day training program. It offers spectacular views of sunrises, sunsets, and stargazing.
What does the training program for space tourists entail?
Blue Origin’s on-site astronaut training program spans two days. It prepares space tourists for their suborbital flight. The program covers New Shepard’s mission profile, safety systems, and zero-gravity protocols. Participants engage in mission simulations to familiarize themselves with the flight experience and emergency procedures.
What are Blue Origin’s achievements in space tourism?
Blue Origin has successfully completed 28 New Shepard flights, including nine with human passengers. The company has flown 47 individuals to space, including founder Jeff Bezos. This shows the growing accessibility of space travel for civilians and the company’s commitment to advancing space exploration.
What is the significance of crossing the Kármán line?
Blue Origin’s flights take passengers beyond the Kármán line, the internationally recognized boundary of space at 62 miles (100 km) above Earth. This experience allows tourists to view the curvature of Earth and the blackness of space. It has been described as life-changing by previous passengers.
How does Blue Origin prioritize sustainability in its space tourism operations?
Blue Origin emphasizes sustainability in its space tourism operations. Nearly 99% of New Shepard’s dry mass is reused, including the capsule, booster, and engine. The rocket’s engine combustion produces only water vapor, with no carbon emissions. This aligns with the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility in space exploration.
Source Links
- Blue Origin launches 6 tourists to edge of space, including couple making their second flight
- Blue Origin launched six more into space Friday, including ‘Space Gal’ Emily Calandrelli
- Blue Origin launch live: Meet the tourists paying to ride $2.5B rocket
- Blue Origin launches six tourists to the edge of space after nearly two-year hiatus | CNN
- New Shepard: A tourist rocket for suborbital jaunts
- The Future of Space Tourism Is Now. Well, Not Quite. (Published 2022)
- Blue Origin launches 6 tourists to the edge of space after nearly 2-year hiatus
- Blue Origin safely launches four commercial astronauts to space and back | Blue Origin
- Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin Launches First Tourists To Space Since 2022 Engine Part Malfunction
- Blue Origin launches 6 tourists to the edge of space after nearly 2-year hiatus
- Watch Jeff Bezos launch to the edge of space on Blue Origin’s first passenger flight
