Saudi Arabia is set to make history once again in the realm of space tourism as it collaborates with HALO Space, a global leader in the industry, to host a significant test flight in September 2024. This event, which marks HALO Space’s sixth test flight, will take place under the auspices of the Kingdom’s Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). It represents a critical milestone in the development of space tourism, aligning closely with the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030.
The upcoming test flight will feature HALO Space’s full-size prototype capsule, Aurora, which is engineered to ascend to 30 kilometers above Earth. This mission is crucial as it aims to validate all critical systems that have been developed over the past three years. According to Alberto Castrillo, Chief Technology Officer of HALO Space, “This mission is designed to meticulously validate all our critical systems we’ve been developing for the past three years.” The location and timing of this test flight were carefully chosen to ensure the safety and reliability of the operation.
Saudi Arabia’s role in space exploration
The choice of Saudi Arabia as the site for this landmark test is a testament to the Kingdom’s growing influence in space exploration. The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) has been instrumental in facilitating this project, working closely with HALO Space and other regulatory bodies such as the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). The collaboration emphasizes Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a global hub for technological innovation and economic diversification, in line with Vision 2030.
Frank Salzgeber, Acting Deputy Governor for Space Sector at CST, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating, “Along with its regulatory mandate, CST is also undertaking an enabling role within the civil Space sector, through fostering innovative business models, promoting Space exploration activities, and supporting joint efforts with relevant authorities to develop Space sector.” This collaboration underscores CST’s dedication to fostering a safe and innovative environment for space exploration.
Strategic Partnerships and Vision for the Future
HALO Space has been supported by Arthur D. Little (ADL) through their Breakthrough Incubator program, benefiting from ADL’s expertise in strategy, technology, and innovation. This partnership has been pivotal in advancing HALO Space’s initiatives. Thomas Kuruvilla, Managing Partner at ADL Middle East and board member of HALO Space, remarked, “Our collaboration with HALO Space reflects our commitment to supporting groundbreaking projects that push the boundaries of technology and exploration.”
The test flight in September is a precursor to manned flights, which are expected to begin in 2025. These flights will be followed by commercial operations in 2026, offering a unique experience that allows passengers to ascend up to 35 kilometers in a balloon-lifted spacecraft. The journey, lasting over six hours, will provide an unparalleled opportunity to witness the Earth’s curvature and the vastness of space.
By 2030, HALO Space aims to make space tourism accessible to a broad audience, with plans to service 10,000 passengers by the end of the decade. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance Saudi Arabia’s space and tourism ecosystem, combining hospitality, education, and entertainment in a groundbreaking venture.
A New Era for Space Tourism
The test flight in September marks a significant step toward the realization of HALO Space’s vision and Saudi Arabia’s aspirations in space tourism. As the Kingdom continues to invest in innovative technologies and partnerships, it positions itself as a leader in the emerging space tourism industry, paving the way for new opportunities and economic growth.
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All images courtesy of HALO Space
