After successfully completing its last space flight on June 8, the financially embattled Virgin Galactic has said that it will not be making any commercial trips for the next two years. During this time, Virgin Galactic hopes to upgrade its fleet.
Virgin’s final commercial space flight was taken on the VSS Unity spacecraft during a mission called Galactic 07, with one astronaut and three private space tourists on board. It brings Virgin Galactic’s total number of space missions to 12.
“Watching our pioneering spaceship Unity return from space on its final commercial flight was a breathtaking and proud moment as we celebrate the ship’s unprecedented achievements in human spaceflight and build momentum for the roll-out of our first Delta Class ships in 2026,” said Michael Colglazier, Ceo Of Virgin Galactic.
The Galactic 07 sub-orbital trip climbed to a peak altitude of 88km. During this time, passengers were able to enjoy a few minutes of weightlessness, with views of the curvature of the Earth before beginning their descent.
“I am beyond grateful to have represented my country on Galactic 07 and conduct groundbreaking research that will impact future space missions. The successful completion of Ax-3 and now Galactic 07 is just the beginning of Turkey’s space endeavours. May our people at home continue to be inspired and dream beyond the stars,” said Tuva Atasever, the Turkish Space Agency astronaut on board the Galactic 07 flight.
Virgin Galactic’s business is facing difficulty after reporting losses of US$100 million (R1,8 billion) during the previous two quarters, reports phys.org.
