From Earth to Orbit: What It Costs to Book Your Space Vacation

Imagine staring out at the Earth from the vast expanse of space, gazing at our planet from an entirely new perspective. The thrill of weightlessness, the beauty of seeing the Earth from orbit, and the excitement of traveling beyond the confines of our home planet make space tourism one of the most exclusive and thrilling experiences available today. What was once the domain of astronauts is now opening up to a new generation of adventurers—those willing to embark on the journey of a lifetime, with a hefty price tag attached.

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The Rise of Space Tourism

The concept of space travel has evolved significantly since the early days of the space race, when only astronauts from government space agencies like NASA and the Soviet space program ventured beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Fast forward to the 21st century, and space tourism is no longer a pipe dream for the ultra-elite. Thanks to private companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic, commercial space travel is on the cusp of becoming a reality for those with the financial means.

SpaceX, under the leadership of Elon Musk, has already begun sending private passengers into orbit with their Crew Dragon capsule, while Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin focuses on suborbital flights through its New Shepard rocket. Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic has begun suborbital flights with its SpaceShipTwo, offering an exhilarating experience of weightlessness and breathtaking views. These companies are not only making space tourism possible, but they are also drastically reducing the technical and financial barriers that once made space travel exclusive to governments and astronauts.

The developments in space tourism represent a milestone in human history, where space is being transformed from a realm of scientific exploration into a new frontier for civilian travel and exploration.

Space Tourism: The New Frontier

The Evolution of Space Tourism

Space tourism has come a long way since Yuri Gagarin became the first human to journey into space in 1961. Back then, space was a vast and unreachable frontier, confined to government-sponsored missions. The early years of space exploration were dominated by military and scientific interests, with limited access for civilians. It wasn’t until the 2000s that the idea of private space travel began to gain traction.

The dawn of modern space tourism began with Dennis Tito, who in 2001 became the first space tourist to pay for a trip to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft. Tito’s journey cost an estimated $20 million, a price that showcased both the possibilities and the exclusivity of space travel. However, with the growth of technology, competition, and private sector involvement, the costs of space travel have gradually decreased over time.

The shift from government programs to private companies became a defining moment for space tourism. Companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic have revolutionized the industry by reducing launch costs, increasing efficiency, and introducing new technologies that make space travel more accessible. These private ventures have not only reduced the price of space travel but also opened the door for civilians to participate in this groundbreaking experience.

Key Players in Space Tourism

Virgin Galactic

Founded by Richard Branson, Virgin Galactic aims to make space travel more accessible by offering suborbital flights aboard its SpaceShipTwo. The company has already conducted several test flights, with plans to launch commercial flights in the near future. Unlike traditional space missions that go into orbit, Virgin Galactic’s flights provide a short experience of weightlessness, allowing passengers to view Earth from the edge of space. With a price tag of around $450,000 per seat, Virgin Galactic’s suborbital spaceflights are considered more affordable than the orbital options provided by other companies. Branson himself flew aboard the spacecraft in 2021, marking a significant milestone in the company’s development.

Blue Origin

Founded by Jeff Bezos, Blue Origin is another key player in the space tourism industry. Their suborbital space tourism service, using the New Shepard rocket, offers a few minutes of weightlessness and a stunning view of Earth. In 2021, Bezos made headlines by flying to space aboard New Shepard, along with other high-profile passengers. Blue Origin’s ultimate goal is to develop reusable rockets, making space travel more affordable and sustainable in the long term. While the suborbital flights are already in operation, Blue Origin has future plans for orbital flights and lunar missions, further expanding the scope of commercial space travel.

SpaceX

Perhaps the most ambitious of all, SpaceX has already started to offer orbital flights, including the Inspiration4 mission in 2021, which sent an all-civilian crew into orbit. Founded by Elon Musk, SpaceX is making waves in the industry with its reusable Falcon rockets and Crew Dragon capsules. SpaceX’s long-term ambitions include launching civilians on lunar missions and beyond. Their Starship project is designed for deep space travel and aims to bring humans to Mars. SpaceX’s offerings, which range from orbital missions to moon landings, present more extensive options compared to the suborbital flights of Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin.

Other Companies

Other companies, including Axiom Space, Bigelow Aerospace, and Orion Span, are also entering the space tourism market. Axiom Space plans to build its own private space station for tourists, while Bigelow Aerospace is exploring the potential of inflatable space habitats. As competition increases, more innovative solutions will emerge, driving further developments in the space tourism industry.

Why Space Travel is Now Within Reach for the Wealthy

The primary reason space tourism is now within reach for the wealthy is a combination of technological advancements, increased competition, and a growing interest in commercial space travel. In the past, space missions were funded and conducted exclusively by government agencies, often costing billions of dollars per launch. However, the development of reusable rockets and spacecraft by companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin has significantly reduced the costs of launching into space. Reusability allows for the same rocket to be flown multiple times, cutting down the expenses that would otherwise make space travel unaffordable.

Moreover, the rise of private investment has played a key role in shaping the market. Companies are now competing to offer the most affordable and exciting space travel experience, which, in turn, pushes down prices. For example, while Virgin Galactic’s suborbital flights cost around $450,000, Blue Origin’s ticket prices are estimated to be similar, with SpaceX’s more advanced orbital flights commanding higher prices that can reach upwards of $250,000 for the simpler trips.

The growing interest in space exploration and the allure of space tourism also contribute to the rise in demand. Billionaires and entrepreneurs are funding these ventures, not just for profit but also to pave the way for future generations of space tourists. As these companies mature and scale, the cost of space travel is expected to continue to decrease, making it more accessible to the broader public.

In the near future, space tourism will become more refined, with regular commercial flights, specialized packages for luxury travelers, and a range of exciting destinations in space—from the ISS to lunar missions. As these advances unfold, it is only a matter of time before space tourism evolves from an exclusive activity for the ultra-wealthy to a more mainstream form of travel, with prices falling in the coming decades.

Space tourism is poised to be the next big thing in the travel industry, offering a life-changing experience that was once thought impossible. With the advent of private companies pushing the limits of technology and innovation, space travel is no longer a far-off dream but an exciting possibility for those with the means and desire to take part in the ultimate adventure.

The Costs of Space Travel – How Much Will You Pay?

Space tourism has evolved from a dream to a reality, but like all exclusive experiences, it comes with a hefty price tag. The cost of space travel depends on several factors, including the type of flight, the spacecraft used, and the destination. Let’s break down the price range and key factors affecting the costs for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Ticket Pricing Overview

Virgin Galactic: A pioneer in commercial space tourism, Virgin Galactic offers suborbital flights, where passengers experience a few minutes of weightlessness and view Earth from the edge of space. The price for a seat on SpaceShipTwo is approximately $250,000. Virgin Galactic’s goal is to make space tourism more accessible by offering regular, suborbital flights at a relatively lower price point compared to orbital missions.
Blue Origin: Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket provides suborbital spaceflights similar to Virgin Galactic’s offering. However, Blue Origin’s prices are slightly more flexible, with estimates ranging from $200,000 to $500,000 per ticket, depending on demand and seat availability. These flights also offer weightlessness and stunning views of Earth but don’t reach full orbital altitude.
SpaceX: For those seeking a more extensive journey, SpaceX offers orbital flights aboard its Crew Dragon capsule. The cost for an orbital space mission with SpaceX starts at around $55 million per seat. This steep price is for missions that offer more than just weightlessness; passengers will experience full orbits around Earth and, eventually, lunar or even Mars-bound trips as SpaceX plans to expand its offerings. In the future, lunar flights with SpaceX’s Starship are expected to increase ticket prices even further.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Your Space Vacation

Several elements contribute to the pricing structure of space tourism:

Flight Type: The cost varies significantly depending on whether you’re going for a suborbital, orbital, or lunar mission. Suborbital flights are the cheapest because they last only a few minutes, while orbital missions can last several hours or days, and lunar missions extend even further, driving up prices.
Duration of the Trip: The duration of your trip impacts the cost. Suborbital flights offer brief, intense experiences that last about 10 to 15 minutes, while orbital flights can span several hours. The duration of the mission, combined with the time spent in space, plays a key role in pricing.
Launch Site and Logistics: The logistics of launching a spacecraft also influence costs. Launch sites located in remote locations or requiring advanced infrastructure can increase ticket prices. Moreover, the complexity of planning, managing, and executing space missions adds to the total cost for passengers.
Spacecraft Used: The type of spacecraft plays a major role in determining pricing. For instance, SpaceX’s Falcon 9, with its reusable rocket technology, offers higher performance and capacity, contributing to the higher price point. Meanwhile, Blue Origin’s New Shepard and Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo are designed for less demanding suborbital missions and are thus priced more affordably, though still out of reach for most.

Are the Prices Justified?

The prices for space tourism are high, but they come with certain justifications:

Exclusive Access: Tickets grant access to an exclusive, historical journey. Space tourists experience a rare adventure that fewer people on Earth have ever had. For many, this access alone is worth the price.
Cutting-Edge Technology: The spacecraft used by companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic are some of the most advanced vehicles in the world, representing decades of research, development, and innovation. The technology required for space travel—especially when focusing on reusability, safety, and longevity—is incredibly costly to develop and maintain.
Space Training: Passengers are given thorough training before their trip, preparing them for the physical and psychological demands of space travel. This involves several days of astronaut-style training, which increases the overall cost.
Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience: Aside from the technical aspects, the unique experience of seeing Earth from space, floating in microgravity, and being part of human history is priceless. The bragging rights that come with being among the few to travel to space can be a huge motivation for many.

Is Space Travel Worth It for You?

For the wealthy individuals considering a space vacation, the question arises: is it worth it? While the costs are undeniably high, the experience offers unparalleled excitement and prestige. Space tourism provides more than just a fun trip—it’s a step into the future, a new frontier of human exploration.

Unique Experience: For those with the financial means, space travel offers an adventure unlike any other. A brief moment in microgravity, a glimpse of Earth from orbit, and the sensation of weightlessness provide an experience that is impossible to replicate anywhere else on Earth.
Bragging Rights: Beyond the thrill, space tourists gain entry into an exclusive club. The bragging rights of having been to space are immense. Many space tourists view this as a once-in-a-lifetime investment in something far beyond a typical luxury vacation.
Future Investment: With the rapid development of space tourism, the cost of tickets is expected to decrease over time, making this a pioneering moment in the travel industry. Those who participate early may also have the opportunity to influence the future of space exploration, which could prove invaluable for future generations of travelers.

Space tourism is not just about the journey; it’s about experiencing the very frontier of human achievement. For those able to afford it, the costs are justified by the incredible experiences, new perspectives, and future possibilities it offers.

What’s Included in the Price of Your Space Vacation?

Space travel isn’t just a ticket to the stars; it’s a premium experience that includes several components designed to ensure safety, comfort, and unforgettable moments. From training to luxurious perks, here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect when you book your space vacation.

The Space Travel Package

Pre-Flight Training
Before venturing into space, every space tourist undergoes extensive pre-flight training. This typically includes:

Safety Training: Passengers are trained on what to expect during the flight, including emergency procedures. They’ll learn how to handle the g-forces during launch and re-entry.
Health Checkups: Space tourists are required to undergo medical assessments to ensure they’re fit for space travel, as the experience can place significant stress on the body.
Simulations: To prepare for the weightlessness and the unique conditions of space, tourists participate in simulations that mimic the flight’s various phases.

Zero-Gravity Experience
A highlight of space tourism is experiencing weightlessness. Passengers will float inside the spacecraft, feeling the effects of microgravity. During this brief but thrilling period, travelers can:

Float freely: Experience the sensation of complete freedom in weightlessness.
View Earth from space: Witness stunning views of Earth’s curvature as the spacecraft soars to the edge of space.

In-Flight Amenities
While you might not expect a luxury cruise in space, space tourism companies aim to provide comfort:

Seating and Comfort: Spacecraft are typically equipped with specially designed seating or harnesses to keep passengers safe during flight while providing comfort.
Space-Specific Services: Some companies offer in-flight meals or beverages, though they may be limited due to the spacecraft’s size and environment. The main focus is on the experience rather than on luxurious amenities.

The Journey to Space

The Flight Experience Itself
The core of the space vacation is the flight itself:

Launch: A thrilling takeoff, often from a remote launch site, where passengers experience high g-forces as the spacecraft blasts off from Earth’s surface.
Views of Earth: Once the spacecraft reaches the edge of space, passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of Earth’s curvature, with the blue planet contrasted against the deep blackness of space.
Weightlessness: During the peak of the flight, travelers experience zero-gravity conditions for several minutes, floating freely as they observe the vastness of space.
Descent and Re-entry: The descent is an equally exciting part of the journey, with passengers feeling increased g-forces as they return to Earth. As the spacecraft approaches the ground, passengers are treated to stunning views of the atmosphere and land below.

Differences Across Companies

Virgin Galactic offers suborbital flights, where the spacecraft reaches an altitude of about 80 kilometers (50 miles), allowing for a brief, high-speed ascent and a few minutes of weightlessness.
Blue Origin‘s New Shepard also provides a suborbital experience, but it focuses on an even simpler and shorter flight, with minimal spaceflight duration, offering a smoother experience for those seeking a less intense adventure.
SpaceX, on the other hand, offers more intense orbital experiences with extended periods in space, targeting destinations like the International Space Station (ISS) or the Moon.

Post-Flight Experience

Debriefing and Celebrations
After returning to Earth, space tourists are treated to debriefing sessions and celebrations:

Post-Flight Briefings: Tourists undergo post-flight evaluations to ensure they’ve safely re-adjusted to gravity. This includes medical assessments and psychological check-ins.
Celebrations: Often, companies host celebrations for space tourists, where families and friends are invited to join in the excitement of their loved ones’ historic journey.
Media Coverage: High-profile space tourism flights often attract media attention, with space tourists receiving coverage in news outlets. This adds a layer of prestige to the experience.

The Lasting Impact on Space Tourists
Returning from space is a transformative experience. Many tourists report a profound shift in their perspective on life. The opportunity to view Earth from space, coupled with the realization of how fragile and interconnected our planet is, leaves a lasting impression on participants. The “Overview Effect,” a term coined by astronauts, describes the cognitive shift many experience when seeing Earth as a small, fragile, and interconnected planet in the vastness of space.

Exclusive Perks and Add-Ons

VIP Treatment
Space tourists often enjoy a range of VIP privileges:

Private Rooms and Luxury Accommodations: Before and after the flight, tourists may be offered private, luxury accommodations at the launch site. Some companies offer exclusive services, including personal trainers, chefs, and concierge services.
Personalized Service: From the moment of booking, space tourists are treated to personalized experiences that cater to their specific needs and desires, making the spaceflight feel even more special.

Optional Experiences and Future Add-Ons
Looking ahead, space tourism companies are expanding their offerings to include exciting add-ons:

Private Spacewalks: While not yet available for suborbital tourists, future orbital flights, especially with SpaceX, may include opportunities for private spacewalks. These excursions could be the ultimate luxury experience, allowing passengers to leave their spacecraft and float freely in the vacuum of space.
Extended Trips: Longer trips to destinations like the International Space Station (ISS) or lunar flybys are in the works. These extended missions will require significant financial investment but promise unparalleled experiences for those who can afford them.

How to Book Your Space Vacation

Booking your space vacation involves a few exciting but detailed steps. Here’s an outline of how to secure your ticket for one of the most extraordinary experiences in human history—space travel.

Booking a Space Flight

Research Space Tourism Companies
The first step in booking your space vacation is selecting the right company. Leading space tourism companies like Virgin Galactic, Blue Origin, and SpaceX each offer different experiences, so it’s essential to explore the options:

Virgin Galactic offers suborbital flights that take passengers just beyond the edge of space for a brief period of weightlessness.
Blue Origin also provides suborbital trips with its New Shepard rocket, offering a similar experience, though it has slightly different amenities and services.
SpaceX is known for its orbital flights and has future plans for lunar and deep space missions. These flights are more expensive but offer longer durations and unique destinations like the Moon or the ISS.

Payment Process
After selecting the company, you’ll proceed with booking. The payment process typically involves two key components:

Deposit: Most companies require a deposit, which can range from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the service. For example, Virgin Galactic requires a $150,000 deposit for a suborbital flight.
Full Payment: After making a deposit, the remaining balance is due before the flight, typically several months or even years before your space adventure. SpaceX, for instance, requires full payment well in advance for orbital flights, as these missions are much more expensive.

Reservation Process
Booking usually starts with registering online through the company’s official website. You’ll create an account, submit personal details, and confirm your space travel choice. As this is a premium service, there may be an exclusive application process for certain flights, particularly for orbital or lunar missions, which may require additional vetting or qualifications.

What You Need to Know Before You Book

Health and Physical Requirements
Space tourism is not just about having the right funds; there are stringent health and physical requirements for travelers. The conditions of space travel can be intense, and it’s essential to meet the criteria set by the space tourism company.

Health and Fitness: Companies like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin have specific health requirements. Tourists need to be in good physical condition and undergo medical assessments. This includes evaluating cardiovascular health, vision, and overall fitness, as the body will experience extreme conditions, like high g-forces during launch and re-entry.
Age and Weight Restrictions: While age limits vary by company, there is generally a minimum age of 18 years. Some companies impose maximum weight limits (e.g., 250-300 lbs, depending on the spacecraft) to ensure comfort and safety. If you’re unsure whether you meet the requirements, it’s best to contact the company directly.

Pre-Flight Training and Simulations
Once you’ve booked, you’ll undergo pre-flight training. This is a critical part of the experience, as it prepares you for the unique conditions of space.

Safety Protocols: Training includes learning how to respond to emergencies, how to use the spacecraft’s facilities, and how to handle the effects of weightlessness.
Simulations: Many companies, like Virgin Galactic, offer zero-gravity simulators, where you can practice weightlessness before the actual flight. This gives you a taste of the experience before you board the spacecraft.

Can You Buy Space Travel as a Gift?

Yes, you can gift a space vacation, although it’s a premium gift, often with a hefty price tag.

Promotional Gift Vouchers: Some space tourism companies, such as Virgin Galactic, offer promotional gift vouchers, which can be purchased for a loved one. These vouchers generally cover part of the cost or are redeemable toward the full ticket price.
Exclusive Packages: Companies sometimes offer exclusive packages, allowing you to buy not only the flight but also additional experiences, such as private VIP sessions before or after the flight. These can make for truly unique and memorable gifts.
Custom Experiences: For the ultimate luxury experience, custom packages may be available, including personalized training sessions, special accommodations, and premium services. These can often be gifted to someone looking to embark on a space adventure.

The Hidden Costs of Space Travel

While booking a ticket for space travel is undoubtedly an incredible experience, it’s important to consider not just the ticket price but the additional costs that can quickly add up. Space tourism involves many hidden expenses that you should be aware of before you take your trip to the stars.

Additional Expenses You Should Consider

Travel Costs
Getting to the launch site is often an overlooked expense. Depending on where you live, the cost of flying to the designated spaceport can add up. For example, SpaceX launches from sites in Florida, while Virgin Galactic’s spaceport is located in New Mexico. If you’re traveling internationally, flights, ground transportation, and accommodations near the spaceport could add thousands of dollars to your trip.
Insurance
Specialized insurance is a significant hidden cost of space tourism. While traditional travel insurance covers regular risks, space tourists need specific coverage due to the high-risk nature of spaceflight. This can be quite expensive, with premiums potentially reaching thousands of dollars to ensure coverage for medical emergencies or flight cancellations.
Merchandise and Souvenirs
Space travel companies often offer exclusive merchandise, such as custom space gear, memorabilia, and collectibles. These items, such as space suits or commemorative items, can be a costly addition to your trip. Expect to pay for high-end items like official space suits or limited-edition souvenirs.
Extra Services
Luxury services such as private suites at the spaceport, post-flight celebrations, and media appearances are available for an additional cost. Some space tourism companies may offer VIP packages that include extra comfort, private rooms, or special privileges that ensure an extraordinary experience before and after your flight.

How to Minimize Extra Costs

If you’re looking to minimize the hidden costs of space travel, consider these tips:

Choose Package Deals: Some companies offer all-inclusive packages that bundle various services together, reducing the overall price. These packages might include accommodation, meals, training, and even post-flight services.
Share Accommodations: If you’re traveling with friends or family, some companies allow you to share accommodations or rooms. This can help reduce lodging costs.
Early Booking Discounts: Just like with regular travel, booking your space ticket early can lead to significant savings. Space tourism companies may offer discounts for those who book their flights well in advance, especially when space is limited.

The Experience of Space Travel – What to Expect

Space travel is unlike any vacation on Earth. Here’s what you can expect from your space journey, from preparation to post-flight recovery.

Pre-Flight Training and Preparation

Before taking off, space tourists undergo extensive training to prepare for the experience. This includes:

Astronaut-style Training: You’ll learn how to safely board the spacecraft, use safety equipment, and react in emergencies. SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, and Blue Origin all provide a version of astronaut training that mimics professional astronaut preparations, but tailored for tourists.
Physical Fitness: To handle the extreme conditions of space travel, tourists often engage in physical fitness routines. Training prepares you for G-forces during launch and re-entry, and helps manage the effects of weightlessness.
Psychological Training: Space tourists also undergo mental preparation. This includes simulations to prepare for the psychological effects of being in space, like isolation or the mental adjustment to zero gravity.

The Flight Experience – From Earth to Orbit

The flight itself is the highlight of the space vacation:

Liftoff and Zero Gravity: Depending on the company, you’ll experience a brief period of weightlessness, floating freely in space. For suborbital flights, this lasts several minutes, but for orbital missions, you might experience extended time in microgravity.
Views of Earth: The most awe-inspiring part of the flight is likely the view of Earth from space. Space tourists have the unique opportunity to see our planet in its entirety from above, which is a breathtaking and humbling experience.
Experience in Orbit: During orbital flights, you may have the chance to float in zero gravity, move around the spacecraft, and interact with the crew. This is unlike anything you’ve experienced on Earth, with your body adjusting to the microgravity environment.

Post-Flight – What Happens After You Land?

Once you return to Earth, the adventure continues in a different way:

Recovery and Debriefing: After landing, you’ll be taken through a recovery phase to ensure you’re in good health after the flight. A debriefing session will allow you to reflect on your experience, and the company may collect data on how you handled the flight.
Celebration and Reflection: Many space tourists celebrate their successful journey back to Earth. This may involve special ceremonies, media appearances, and personal reflection on the profound impact of traveling to space. You’ll have access to videos and photos from your flight, helping you relive the experience.
Social Media Impact: Space tourists often share their journey on social media, making it one of the most exclusive and talked-about experiences. The media coverage and personal storytelling often continue long after the flight.

The Future of Space Tourism and Travel

Space tourism is still in its early stages, but exciting developments are on the horizon. Here’s what the future holds for this industry.

New Technologies and Lower Costs

Innovation in spacecraft design and propulsion systems will continue to reduce the cost of space travel. Reusable spacecraft like SpaceX’s Starship are expected to lower costs significantly, making space tourism more accessible to a broader audience. As technology advances, we can expect space travel to become more affordable, especially as more private companies enter the market and drive competition.

The Next Frontier – Lunar and Mars Travel

Looking further into the future, space tourism companies like SpaceX have plans for lunar missions and even Martian expeditions. These long-term goals will take space travel beyond orbit and open up the possibility of vacations to the Moon or Mars. While these missions are years away, they represent the next frontier in space tourism.

Will Space Travel Ever Be for the Masses?

The question of whether space tourism will ever be accessible to the masses remains. While prices are currently prohibitively high, it’s expected that as technology improves and demand grows, the cost will decrease. Will space tourism ever be affordable for ordinary people? It’s possible, but it may take decades before the price drops enough to make it a mainstream vacation choice.

Conclusion

Space tourism offers an unparalleled experience, but it comes with a hefty price tag. From the ticket cost to hidden expenses like travel, insurance, and extra services, it’s important to factor in all the costs when considering a space vacation. However, the opportunity to see Earth from space and experience weightlessness makes it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure worth the investment for those who can afford it.

Space travel is no longer a fantasy for astronauts alone. While the price tag is steep, it’s a remarkable journey that will redefine your perspective of Earth and the universe. Booking your space vacation is an extraordinary way to make history, and as the technology matures, it may one day be within reach for even more adventurous travelers.