What's Happening?
InterstellOr, a Beijing-based space tourism company, is planning to launch its first crewed suborbital mission in 2028. The company has signed Chinese actor Johnny Huang Jingyu as one of its early passengers. InterstellOr unveiled a full-scale experimental
version of its CYZ1 crew capsule and conducted a landing buffer test. The capsule is designed to take passengers above the Kármán Line, offering a few minutes of microgravity experience. Initial tickets are priced at approximately $430,000, with a 10% deposit required for reservations.
Why It's Important?
InterstellOr's entry into the space tourism market marks a significant development in the commercial space industry, particularly in China. By signing a celebrity passenger, the company aims to generate public interest and credibility. This move mirrors strategies used by Western companies like Blue Origin, which have successfully integrated celebrity endorsements to boost their space tourism ventures. The success of InterstellOr could pave the way for increased competition and innovation in the global space tourism sector.
What's Next?
InterstellOr will continue to develop and test its CYZ1 capsule, with the goal of achieving certification and readiness for its 2028 launch. The company will likely focus on securing additional passengers and refining its business model to ensure a successful entry into the market. As the launch date approaches, InterstellOr may face regulatory and technical challenges that will need to be addressed to meet its timeline.
