Virgin Galactic: space tourism is (finally) taking off
Over twenty years ago, Virgin Galactic promised to open the doors of space to ordinary people—or at least, to those who could afford it. Since then, nearly 800 people have purchased a ticket, with some paying “just” $200,000. Today, prices hover around $450,000–$600,000 for an experience that lasts only a few minutes. But the story behind each flight is far more complex than a simple countdown and launch.
The full experience lasts around 90 minutes to 2 hours, though the moments of weightlessness are just 4 to 5 minutes.
The VSS Unity spaceplane is carried by a mothership called VMS Eve, taking off from Spaceport America, a launch site in the New Mexico desert. At about 15 km altitude, Unity detaches and ignites its rocket engine to reach 85–90 km above sea level—briefly crossing what many consider the edge of space.
The full experience lasts around 90 minutes to 2 hours, though the moments of weightlessness are just 4 to 5 minutes. Enough time to float, gaze at Earth's curve, shed a few tears, and record an epic social media video.
Before flying, however, passengers undergo a training process few anticipate. This includes several days of intensive preparation: physiological adaptation, breathing techniques, stress management, emergency simulations, and even how to float properly or safely strap in under extreme conditions.
Virgin Galactic sells the experience as a transformative luxury journey—but criticism hasn’t been scarce. Beyond environmental concerns—each flight may emit up to 27 tons of CO₂—some question the scientific or social value of such missions. Is this exploration, or elite tourism disguised as adventure?
Others see Virgin Galactic as a gateway to space democratization. Today it’s for the wealthy; tomorrow, who knows? Just like air travel once was exclusive, and now it’s mainstream.
It hasn’t been a smooth ride. A fatal 2014 accident halted progress for years. But since 2021, Virgin Galactic has completed several manned flights, featuring civilian passengers such as Italian officer Walter Villadei and the Afro-Caribbean mother-daughter duo Keisha and Anastatia Schahaff, who won their seats via a charity lottery.
each flight may emit up to 27 tons of CO₂
There’s still a long waiting list. Some customers have been holding on for over 20 years, clinging to a dream that, for now, only a few have lived.
But beyond the marketing and the hype, one essential question remains: What are we really looking for when we look to space? Fame, adrenaline, purpose—or just the privilege of doing what few can afford?
At GoalValor, we believe you don’t need to leave Earth’s atmosphere to experience something extraordinary. The most powerful—and affordable—journey begins when you close your eyes and decide to look within.
So what would you do with half a million dollars? Float for five minutes… or invest in a life-changing journey?
