Virgin Galactic announces start of commercial spaceflight service

A commercial space flight service has officially begun, according to Virgin Galactic. Galactic 01’s first commercial revenue-generating mission flight window opens on June 27, 2023, with options to fly through June 30.

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After completing the Unity 25 voyage, as well as any necessary follow-up studies and vehicle inspections, Virgin Galactic’s crew and vehicles are prepared to launch their first paying clients into space. Three crew members from the Italian Air Force and the National Research Council of Italy will travel on Galactic 01 to undertake microgravity research. The value and strength of Virgin Galactic’s special suborbital science lab will be demonstrated by carrying scientific payloads on its first-ever commercial mission.

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According to Virgin Galactic CEO Michael Colglazier, “We are launching the first commercial spaceline for Earth with two dynamic products – our scientific research and private astronaut space missions.” “Innovation, tenacity, and a dedication to providing an unequaled and genuinely transformative customer experience have driven this next exciting chapter for Virgin Galactic,” the company said.

The second commercial spaceflight, ‘Galactic 02,’ will follow in early August 2023, with monthly spaceflights expected by Virgin Galactic thereafter.

Livestreams for Galactic 01 and Galactic 02 will be available on virgingalactic.com, and information regarding the crew and manifest for the inaugural flights will be made public ahead of each voyage.