Virgin Galactic is ready to fly customers to space

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

It was only a few months ago that Sir Richard Branson’s company filed for bankruptcy in the US after failing to obtain new investment.

But after this announcement to investors, Virgin Galactic shares jumped more than 40% in extended New York trading according to the BBC.

The company now states that its team and vehicles are ready to fly the company’s first customers to space, having successfully completed the Unity 25 spaceflight and subsequent routine analysis and vehicle inspections.

‘Galactic 01,’ a scientific research mission, will carry three crew members from the Italian Air Force and the National Research Council of Italy to conduct microgravity research.

With scientific payloads on board, the spaceflight will showcase the value and power of the unique suborbital science lab that Virgin Galactic offers.

‘Galactic 02,’ which will bring Virgin Galactic’s unique experience to private astronauts, is planned for early August, with monthly flights to space beginning thereafter.

“We are launching the first commercial spaceline for Earth with two dynamic products — our scientific research and private astronaut space missions. This next exciting chapter for Virgin Galactic has been driven by innovation, determination and a commitment to delivering an unparalleled and truly transformative customer experience,” said Michael Colglazier, CEO, Virgin Galactic.

Details regarding the crew and manifest for initial flights will be released in advance of each mission.

Livestreams for both ‘Galactic 01’ and ‘Galactic 02’ missions will be available to view on the website.