Marc Benioff & Civilian Spaceflight Judges | Space Tourism

SpaceX's Upcoming Civilian Spaceflight and Passenger Selection

SpaceX is preparing for its inaugural all-civilian human spaceflight mission. This ambitious endeavor aims to send four individuals into orbit utilizing a Crew Dragon capsule, pending successful completion of all preparations.

One of the passengers will be chosen through a unique selection process. A panel of judges will evaluate submissions from entrepreneurs to determine the winning candidate.

The Selection Panel

The judging panel comprises a diverse group of leaders. It includes Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce; Stephanie Mehta, Editor-in-Chief of Fast Company; Mark Rober, a popular YouTuber; and Jon Taffer, host of the TV show Bar Rescue.

While seemingly an unconventional combination, the panel’s composition is deliberate.

Mission Passengers and Charitable Component

The mission, dubbed Inspiration4, already has two confirmed passengers. Jared Isaacman, founder of Shift4 Payments and the mission’s sponsor, will be onboard.

Additionally, Hayley Arceneaux, a cancer survivor and employee of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, has been selected to participate.

Contest Details and Eligibility

Two remaining seats will be awarded through separate contests. One contest is open to all U.S. citizens who contribute to St. Jude through the ongoing fundraising campaign.

The other seat will be granted to an applicant who operates a store on Shift4’s Shift4Shop e-commerce platform. This selection will be made by the aforementioned panel of judges.

A Marketing Initiative

This groundbreaking space mission also serves as a marketing strategy for Isaacman’s company. It promotes Shift4Shop as an alternative to Shopify.

However, eligibility isn’t limited to new stores; existing Shift4Shop customers can also apply.

Selection Criteria

The judges will be looking for a business owner or entrepreneur who demonstrates ingenuity, innovation, and determination. This broad criterion allows for a wide range of potential winners.

There is considerable anticipation surrounding the panel’s final decision.

Mission Timeline

Currently, the Inspiration4 mission is scheduled for launch in the fourth quarter of 2021. Specific details, such as the mission’s duration and orbital parameters, are still being finalized.