Space Virgin

Branson to go orbital

Furthering his global enterprise with the concept of affordable space travel, Sir Richard Branson is to embark on the first flight of Virgin's WhiteKnight 2 spacecraft. Kicking off a series of demonstrations and air shows at the EAA AirVenture 2009 event in America, the Virgin founder will be a member of the crew this week, aboard the Virgin Galactic Mothership, 'Eve'.

Unveiled to the public for the first time, the robust vehicles are speculated to be making space tourism economically possible. The spacecraft was designed for six passengers and two pilots, showcasing cushioned reclining seats and window space for paying members of the public, who will experience several minutes of weightlessness. Passengers will even be able to float around inside the cabin, offering an authentic astronaut experience. Designed and developed by California-based aerospace designer Burt Rutan, the WhiteKnight 2 carrier is reported to be larger than a Boeing 757. Operating with cleaner-burning jet engines, Branson's environmental priorities look to be giving space travel a green touch.

Sir Richard commented on his groundbreaking new venture: "The deal with Mojave Aerospace Ventures is just the start of what we believe will be a new era in the history of mankind, one day making the affordable exploration of space by human beings a real possibility."

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