The future of space tourism might just be on the horizon, quite literally, as a Hokkaido-based start-up envisions sending adventurers soaring into the stratosphere aboard helium balloons. This venture’s mission is clear: democratize the breathtaking experience of viewing Earth from above without the exorbitant price tag associated with rocket space travel.
This innovative venture took a significant step forward in late July when their helium balloon undertook a successful manned test flight, achieving an awe-inspiring altitude of 6km (19,700ft). Their ultimate goal is ambitious: reach 25km by the end of 2023. Upon reaching this towering altitude, passengers will witness the surreal juxtaposition of Earth’s vivid blue curvature set against the vast black expanse of space.
The balloon’s recent test flight, conducted in the serene morning haze of Tokachi district, was an astonishing sight. Akihito Oikawa, a 35-year-old pioneer from the company’s space development team, boarded the balloon’s compact cabin, measuring 1.1 metres in width and 1.5 metres in height. As the balloon ascended, it quickly vanished from onlookers’ views, only to return after a two-hour journey, having traveled 26km from the launch site.
Equipped to ascend to 11km, this balloon offers more than just breathtaking views. At altitudes above 4km, breathing becomes a challenge due to the thinning atmosphere. Addressing this, the company designed an airtight cabin crafted from specialized plastics, which can withstand external air pressure and extreme temperatures. This engineering marvel also boasts a state-of-the-art system that maintains optimal oxygen and water vapour levels, ensuring passengers’ safety and comfort. The company proudly stated that both the balloon and cabin are primed to reach their ambitious 25km height target.
Founded in 2016 by Keisuke Iwaya, an aerospace engineering enthusiast from Hokkaido University, the start-up has always aimed to make “near-space tourism by balloon” accessible to many. Dedicated to their vision, over 35 employees have embarked on these high-altitude journeys for training and data gathering purposes.
While space is conventionally defined as starting at 100km above Earth, the mesmerizing “spectacle of the blue Earth” is visible from the stratosphere at 25km. Recognizing the allure of this unique experience, the company has already started taking applications for these high-altitude adventures, anticipating their first commercial journey in March 2024. Despite the current price of 24 million yen (US$164,000) for a four-hour journey, there’s no shortage of eager applicants.
However, the vision extends beyond these initial flights. The start-up’s collaboration with travel agencies reflects its ambition to eventually bring down the cost to a more accessible 1 million yen. But before they aim for 25km, the immediate goal is a manned flight reaching 12km. While the company is eager to bring space travel to the masses, safety remains paramount.
In conclusion, as the realms of possibility expand, this Hokkaido-based start-up is redefining space tourism. It’s a vision where the wondrous experience of viewing our planet from the stratosphere isn’t just reserved for the elite but is within reach for many more.
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