Space tourism will soon be a reality. Indeed, many companies are actively working to be able to offer space travel to individuals. In this area, SpaceX is already considered a benchmark and for good reason. On May 30, 2020, Elon Musk’s space company made the inaugural launch of its Crew Dragon capsule, with two NASA astronauts on board.
The success of this launch demonstrates the ability of the private sector to build and operate a launcher for human spaceflight. SpaceX isn’t the only company targeting space tourism. Companies like Boeing and Lockheed are also working in this direction.
Photo SpaceX. Crédits PIxabay
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As you will have understood, tourism spatial will soon no longer be a dream. However, to enjoy this kind of trip, you will need a well-stocked wallet. Apart from financial concerns, future space tourists will also need to prepare for the risks they might face.
Dangers that remain unknown
Sara M. Langston, professor in Spaceflight Operations at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, published an article on The Conversation in which she explains the risks to which space tourists are exposed. Without preamble, she said that space travel is “Naturally dangerous. “
“While certain dangers linked to space flights and the space environment – such as the force of gravity, radiation, vibrations or microgravity – are well documented, others remain unknown”, she wrote.
Tourists who will travel at their own risk
Sara M. Langston pointed out that space tourists do not enjoy the protection of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is responsible for the regulations and controls concerning civil aviation in the United States.
“This means that they expose themselves to enormous risks”, she explained.
What is more, there are no medical selection criteria for these travelers. According to Sara M. Langston, the company that organizes the trip will be free to determine these criteria, as did Virgin Galactic. These companies will also need to organize training sessions to prepare participants.
The FAA has indicated that space tourists must be at least 18 years old. It should be noted that the regulations oblige space companies to inform travelers and the crew that “The US government does not guarantee the safety of travel and space vehicles for humans. “
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