First ‘Marine Spaceport’ For Space Tourists Has Embarked On Water

Luxury space exploration company Space Perspective is about to launch its crafts from the middle of the ocean.
 
Earlier this year, the company announced a “space lounge” for its balloon-shaped craft, Spaceship Neptune, which will soar up into the stratosphere to give enthusiastic daredevils a new, life-changing perspective of the world. Flights are slated to begin sometime in 2024, but it needs a launching pad before it takes off.

As the company that will first bring a lounge into the stratosphere, it only makes sense that it is also the first to launch your average space tourist from the middle of the sea. As a result, the upcoming MS Voyager is the first-ever Marine Spaceport built for commercial tourism, capable of setting up on land or water to support takeoffs and landings.
 
The idea behind a hydro-launchpad was to give the company flexibility during takeoff. With a movable base, it can take advantage of areas with good weather, maximizing its operations year-round. Space Perspective will also be able to shoot up into the edge of space during peak hours of the day, such as during sunset or sunrise, to ensure its travelers have even more dramatic views of the planet.

Edison Chouest Offshore built the vessel, and Guice Offshore will oversee marine operations. Additionally, MS Voyager will run on biofuel to help cut down its carbon emissions.
 
 
 
[via Robb Report and Space Perspective/Business Wire, images via Space Perspective/Business Wire]