For centuries, humanity has looked up at the stars and dreamed of one day reaching them. Thanks to recent advancements in private space tourism, that dream is now a reality for those with the means to afford it. Among the latest companies to offer these once-in-a-lifetime experiences is Zephalto, a French firm that specializes in stratospheric balloon flights.
Launching from a number of purpose-built spaceports around the world, Zephalto‘s flights take passengers on a breathtaking journey to the edge of space. After a 1.5-hour ascent to a height of 15.5 miles above the Earth’s surface, passengers spend three hours floating in the stratosphere, enjoying unparalleled views of the planet below. The journey concludes with a 1.5-hour descent back to Earth.
What sets Zephalto apart from other private space tourism companies is its commitment to low-carbon travel. The flights utilize a pressurized balloon that benefits from 11 different patents and is powered by either helium or hydrogen, both of which produce significantly fewer carbon emissions than traditional rocket propulsion.
But the experience is anything but low-tech. The state-of-the-art capsule features 215 square feet of space, seating for six, and class-leading 75-square-foot windows. Designed by current and ex-French Space Agency staffers, the capsule offers passengers the best in comfort and safety, making this once-in-a-lifetime journey truly unforgettable.
Of course, this kind of luxury experience comes at a premium cost. Boarding passes start at €120,000 (~$132,000) per passenger, making this an experience reserved for the incredibly wealthy. But for those who can afford it, Zephalto offers a life-changing adventure that combines cutting-edge technology with the natural beauty of our planet. Visit the Zephalto website for more details.
