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Halo Space - a company set to offer zero-emission commercial space flights starting in 2026 - has announced that Saudi Arabia will host a landmark test of its capsule prototype
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 08 Aug 2024
Halo Space's prototype capsule will ascend to 30 kilometres above the Earth's surface for the test flight Credit: Halo Space
Halo Space - a company set to offer zero-emission commercial space flights starting in 2026 - has announced that Saudi Arabia will host a landmark test of its capsule prototype.
Founded in 2021, Halo has been working with a select group of top-tier aerospace companies in the development of its Aurora capsule, which will carry passengers up to a viewing height of 40km (131,000ft).
Supported by Saudi’s Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), the upcoming test flight will see the prototype capsule ascend to a height of 30km above the Earth’s surface. The purpose of the mission is to “rigorously validate” that critical systems developed to ensure flights can be operated safely.
“This mission is designed to meticulously validate all our critical systems we’ve been developing for the past three years,” said Alberto Castrillo, chief technology officer of Halo Space. “The dates and location were set to ensure the reliable operation of our equipment and safe conditions for the teams that will be on the ground operating the flight.”
The CST has been working with and supporting Halo Space since the start of 2024, overseeing preparations for the test flight. In line with this support, Halo Space has established a flagship operational base and final assembly site in Saudi Arabia. According to the CST, the launch underscores the Kingdom's ideal conditions for Space exploration activities and support for innovative business models.
“Along with its regulatory mandate, CST is also undertaking an enabling role within the civil space sector,” said Frank Salzgeber, acting deputy governor for space sector at CST.
“This innovative project represents a significant step forward in space tourism, and in support of such technological advancements and investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia”.
Halo says the capsule test flights are a prelude to the launch of manned flights, which are expected to begin in 2025, to be then followed by commercial flights in 2026.
By 2030, Halo aims to make space tourism accessible to a broader audience, with plans to service 10,000 passengers from the launch of its commercial operations until the end of the decade. Halo is also developing a programme to remove financial barriers for the many who cannot afford the ticket price but are passionate about space exploration.
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