Virgin Galactic, part of Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, is a company that aims to offer commercial spaceflights to the public. Founded in 2004, it represents a pioneering venture into the burgeoning field of space tourism, leveraging cutting-edge aerospace technology to develop commercial spacecraft. The company’s mission is to provide affordable space travel experiences, making it possible for more people to witness the beauty of Earth from space. Based in the United States, Virgin Galactic has focused on developing its spacecraft systems, primarily working from Spaceport America in New Mexico, a hub specifically designed for space-related endeavors.
Virgin Galactic’s main spacecraft, VSS Unity, is designed to take passengers on suborbital flights, offering a few minutes of weightlessness and a view of Earth from the edge of space. The vehicle is launched from a carrier aircraft, gaining altitude before detaching and igniting its rocket engine to propel it towards space. This method, known as air launch to orbit, is less harsh than traditional rocket launches and allows for a smoother journey for passengers. Safety and passenger experience are top priorities for Virgin Galactic, which conducts rigorous testing on all aspects of the flight experience.
