Ever dream of being an astronaut?
If so, we've got some great news for you. Outer space may finally be within your grasp.
Virgin Galactic -- a company founded by multi-billionaire, Richard Branson -- is reportedly constructing a series of spaceships which will transport passengers willing to pay a hefty fee to the outer edges of the earth's atmosphere.
Although the company's press releases and promotional literature describe the experience as "affordable space tourism," we beg to differ. With tickets "starting" at $200,000 for the 2 1/2 hour voyage, we imagine only an elite few will be able to afford the trip's exorbitant costs.
There are currently three tiers of travelers that make up this exclusive Galactic group. The "Founders," the first 100 scheduled to fly, were already required to pay the full $200,000 fare to the "spaceline," in advance. (And, are advised that this list is currently "closed.") The "Pioneers," are the next 1,000 travelers, who are being asked to deposit anywhere from $100,000 to $175,000. While "Voyagers," are being asked to remit a downpayment of some $20,000.
It's not like you're going to have a lot of time to amass the funds for the ticket price, flights are anticipated to begin departing late next year -- in 2008 -- from the "Mojave Spaceport," a location in the Californian desert.
Those of you who believe flying commercial aircraft presents enough of a challenge, may want to consider a much more inexpensive alternative. "Astronaut wannabes" can experience the thrill of a simulated launch into deep space -- at the Walt Disney World (Epcot) attraction Mission: SPACE -- for a whole lot less cash and with plenty to spare for the Spaetzle, Schnitzel, and Frikadellen at the property's "Biergarten" restaurant.
To learn more about becoming a "private astronaut," and to secure your "space ticket," please click on the following link: http://virgingalactic.com/