Branson vs. Bezos: The Final Stretch of the Space Race

The Race to the Kármán Line: Branson vs. Bezos

A compelling competition is unfolding between two of the world’s wealthiest individuals as they strive to reach the Kármán line. Richard Branson is positioned to potentially succeed with a scheduled flight on July 11th utilizing a Virgin Galactic spacecraft, potentially preceding Jeff Bezos’s planned journey on July 20th aboard a Blue Origin New Shepard capsule.

This development was revealed through a recent announcement from Virgin Galactic, detailing a launch window opening at 6 AM Pacific time on July 11th. The mission represents a significant milestone, as it will be the first to carry a complete crew.

Crew Details for the Virgin Galactic Flight

Dave Mackay and Michael Masucci are designated as the pilots for the VSS Unity spacecraft. Beth Moses, Chief Astronaut Instructor, will oversee the flight’s progression. Colin Bennett, Lead Operations Engineer, will be responsible for monitoring cabin equipment and procedures.

Sirisha Bandla, Vice President of Government Affairs and Research Operations, will conduct a microgravity experiment developed by the University of Florida. Finally, Sir Richard Branson himself will be “evaluating the private astronaut experience,” effectively serving as the initial passenger.

Branson articulated his vision, stating, “I truly believe that space belongs to all of us.” He emphasized that Virgin Galactic, after over 16 years of dedicated research, engineering, and testing, is leading the way in a new commercial space sector.

He further explained that this industry is poised to broaden access to space for humanity and positively impact the world. Branson expressed his honor in validating the experience for future astronauts and ensuring the delivery of a unique customer experience.

Flight Profile and Training

The mission will follow the established Virgin Galactic model, beginning with a traditional airplane ascent to a high altitude. Subsequently, the rocket-powered VSS Unity will detach and accelerate beyond 80 kilometers, a commonly recognized boundary of space.

Branson will undergo the same comprehensive training as all future Virgin Galactic space tourists and will wear the standard blue flight suit.

Should the mission proceed as planned, Branson will arrive in space approximately a week before Bezos, potentially resolving a longstanding wager.

Bezos’s Blue Origin Flight

Bezos is scheduled to launch on July 20th (subject to potential delays) aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard, accompanied by his brother and a winning bidder from a recent auction.

The auction resulted in a winning bid of $28 million from an anonymous purchaser.

Blue Origin also announced that Wally Funk will join the crew. Funk was a graduate of NASA’s Mercury 13 program in 1961, which trained female astronauts, but the program was ultimately cancelled, preventing her from reaching space.

After a 50-year wait, Funk will finally have the opportunity to experience spaceflight.