Parabolic flights
For those who want to experience weightlessness without leaving Earth’s atmosphere or spending a fortune, parabolic flights are an accessible option. Companies such as Zero Gravity Corporation operate modified Boeing 727 aircraft that fly a series of parabolic arcs. During each parabola, passengers experience about 20–30 seconds of microgravity; a standard flight includes 15 such arcs, providing a total of about seven to eight minutes of weightlessness. Tickets cost around US$5 000 per person, making this the lowest‑cost way to float freely. Parabolic flights also serve as training for sub‑orbital and orbital missions.
Suborbital training programmes
As noted earlier, the NASTAR Center offers a two‑day Suborbital Spaceflight Participant course that replicates launch and re‑entry profiles using the STS‑400 human centrifuge. Trainees learn about aerospace environments, G‑force countermeasures and spatial orientation. This course is open to the public (age 18+ with medical clearance) and provides a certificate of completion that may be recognised by commercial operators.
High‑altitude balloons and stratospheric flights
Beyond Space Perspective’s balloon flights, other companies such as World View propose stratospheric journeys. These flights rise to about 30 km using giant balloons and provide several hours of breathtaking views. Prices are expected to be similar to Space Perspective’s US$125 000 per seat. Balloons offer a lower‑risk alternative to rockets and may appeal to passengers seeking a calmer ascent.
Space camps and simulators
Numerous space camps and training facilities around the world offer immersive experiences for adults and children. The Kennedy Space Center provides astronaut training simulations, including docking exercises, Mars terrain navigation and microgravity simulators. Private organisations such as Orbite offer luxury “astronaut orientation” retreats where guests stay at resort facilities and spend several days learning about spaceflight, including parabolic flights, centrifuge rides and water survival training. These programmes cater to aspiring space tourists who want to prepare mentally and physically before booking a flight.