Tourists in Saudi Arabia will soon have the chance to embark on an extraordinary journey to the earth’s stratosphere with HALO Space, a Madrid-based company specializing in space tourism. The company has selected the Kingdom as one of its departure points and is preparing for a test flight in June, marking a significant milestone in near-space exploration.
HALO Space CEO Carlos Mira said: “As the most advanced near space company in the sector in terms of technical development, safety is our top priority, which is why we’ve consistently tested each system that makes up our flight program.
“We are on a mission to make space travel more safe, accessible and affordable. This test will rigorously validate the integrated operation of all critical systems, bringing us one step closer to our goal.”
Details of the Trip
HALO Space’s stratospheric trips will take travelers approximately 32 kilometres above the earth’s surface, offering breathtaking views of our planet from a unique vantage point. Each trip will cost $164,000 (Dh602,000) per person, making it an exclusive yet unparalleled experience for adventure enthusiasts.
Mira said: “I’ve spoken with several astronauts about the feeling of profound transformation when you view the Overview Effect. Everyone should get the chance to see our home from such a view.”
The four to six-hour flight time, including one to two hours at a maximum altitude of up to 35km, allows for more time to take in 360º views of Earth with much larger windows than those on traditional planes or rockets.
The spacecraft utilized by HALO Space is equipped with a pressurized capsule capable of accommodating eight passengers and a pilot. This capsule features panoramic windows, providing passengers with a 360-degree view of the Earth. What’s more, the gradual helium balloon-powered ascent ensures a smooth and comfortable journey, accessible to nearly anyone without the need for special training.
HALO Space aims to democratize access to space travel, making it safer, more accessible, and affordable for everyone. CEO Carlos Mira emphasizes the company’s commitment to safety, highlighting the rigorous testing of critical systems to ensure a seamless experience for passengers.
Commercial flights are slated to commence in 2026, with HALO Space aiming to operate 400 flights annually by 2029. The company is working closely with aeronautical and space authorities in the US, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Spain to establish operational bases for its flights, ensuring the utmost safety and efficiency.
HALO Space envisions bringing the transformative experience of space travel, known as the “Overview Effect,” to 10,000 individuals in the coming decade. Through expansive windows offering unparalleled views, passengers will have the opportunity to gain a new perspective on our planet and our place in the universe.
These locations have been chosen based on the adequacy of their meteorology, territory, and airspace for safe near-space stratospheric flights. According to a Saudi Arabian Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) report, the space industry is forecasted to reach an average annual value of $2.2 billion by 2030.