Start-up makes space travel possible for tourists

On April 12, 1961, the first human was sent into space. To mark this historic moment, the United Nations declared the day International Space Day. MASTERS highlights a project by a Japanese start-up that makes space travel accessible without the astronomical price tag traditionally attached to it.

On April 12, 1961, the first human was sent into space. In order not to forget this historic moment, the United Nations declared this day International Space Day. Especially for the occasion, MASTERS shines a light on a project by a Japanese start-up that makes a trip to space possible, without having to pay an (astronomically) high amount of money for it.

So, no summer plans yet? The company, Iwaya Giken, based in Sapporo in northern Japan, has been working on the project since 2012 and recently presented an airtight two-seater cabin with a helium balloon that can rise to a height of 25 kilometers. Through the large windows you can enjoy unobstructed views and the curvature of the earth. 

After floating for an hour, the capsule will make an hour-long descent back to Earth. Because helium can be reused, it is a relatively environmentally friendly initiative. 

Not a billionaire

Keisuke Iwaya, CEO of the Japanese company, says he wants the space democratize and make it accessible to the everyday tourist in an affordable way: ''It is safe, economical and user-friendly. The idea is to make space tourism possible for everyone." This means that one does not have to undergo intensive training before departure, be a billionaire or have the language skills required to fly a rocket. 

Requests for a spatial trip in the cabin can now be made. The first five selected passengers will be announced in October.

4️⃣ [ACCÉLÉRER] #IwayaGiken est sur le point d'aller dans l'#espace sans fusee https://t.co/TfC65ufhf5 v/ @pressecitron

⚡️ L'objectif de la #startup The beauty of the tourist capsules is the grace of a balloon stratosphere #NewSpace #FlashTweet pic.twitter.com/MaRKicbVKC

— FlashTweet, LA Matinale du Changement (@FlashTweet) February 27, 2023