Space Camp for Adults | Orbite - Five-Star Space Travel Experience

The Rise of Private Space Travel and the Need for Specialized Training

With private aerospace firms such as Axiom Space, Blue Origin, Virgin Galactic, and SpaceX preparing to transport private citizens into space, a new market is emerging focused on preparing these affluent travelers for their upcoming missions. Orbite, a novel space training company, exemplifies this trend, aiming to integrate the principles of aeronautics with the standards of five-star hospitality in its initial astronaut training program.

Preparing for the Journey

“A significant number – hundreds, potentially thousands – of individuals will venture into space this decade,” explains co-founder Jason Andrews in an interview with TechCrunch. “However, spaceflight isn’t simply a matter of leaving one’s home and boarding a rocket; comprehensive mental, physical, and even spiritual preparation is essential for this extraordinary experience.” Orbite intends to fulfill this crucial preparatory role.

Founding and Expertise

Orbite, deriving its name from the French word for “orbit” (pronounced or-beet), was established by Jason Andrews and Nicolas Gaume, both seasoned professionals in the space and hospitality sectors. Andrews brings his experience as the founder of Spaceflight and BlackSky to the venture. Gaume, a successful entrepreneur in software and game development, also serves on the board of Groupe Gaume, his family’s resort and hotel enterprise.

Notably, Gaume’s company, Space Cargo Unlimited, previously transported a selection of wine bottles to the International Space Station last year, which were subsequently returned to Earth. When questioned about the wine’s altered taste, Gaume described it as “a unique product.”

Leadership and Proven Experience

The training program will be under the direction of Brienna Rommes, formerly the director of space training and research at the National Aerospace Training and Research Center. Orbite highlights that Rommes has already prepared over 600 individuals for spaceflight, including Sir Richard Branson.

Beyond Preparation: A 'Try Before You Buy' Option

While the program is designed to thoroughly prepare individuals committed to space travel, Andrews also suggests Orbite can serve as a valuable exploratory experience. It allows potential travelers to sample the realities of spaceflight before making a substantial investment. This represents a key differentiator, offering a broad overview of space travel options, contrasting with the specialized, mandatory training provided by individual launch companies.

Cost and Initial Locations

The financial commitment to space travel remains substantial. Reports indicate that a seat on Axiom’s first commercial mission to the International Space Station costs upwards of $55 million. Orbite’s premium training program, a three-day, four-night experience, is priced at $29,500 per participant.

Acknowledging the program’s premium cost, the initial four training sessions scheduled for the remainder of 2021 will be hosted at luxurious locations: the Four Seasons Resort in Orlando, Florida, and Hôtel La Co(o)rniche in Pyla-sur-Mer, France. The latter is owned by Groupe Gaume.

A Comprehensive Training Curriculum

Participants will experience forces up to 5 Gs during flights on a high-performance aircraft, alongside simulations of zero-gravity environments. The program also prioritizes mental and spiritual readiness, incorporating meditation training, stress and anxiety management workshops, and personalized coaching sessions. These sessions are designed to help individuals “explore personal goals for space, thoughts and assess possible flight options,” according to the company.

The curriculum further includes immersive virtual reality mission simulations and a “Michelin star” quality space food tasting experience.

Focus on Holistic Preparation

“Our aim is to bridge the gap by providing a more sensorial, psychological, and even spiritual preparation for the journey,” Gaume emphasizes.

Future Expansion and Vision

The company’s long-term objective is to establish and operate a network of training facilities globally. The first dedicated facility is anticipated to open in 2023 or 2024, though the specific location remains undisclosed.

Andrews and Gaume indicate that this facility will offer a variety of packages, including single-day experiences, alongside accommodation and hospitality services. These services could potentially extend for weeks or months, anticipating a future where private citizens undertake extended missions to destinations like the Moon or Mars.