Explore the Ultimate Space Adventure: Orbital Flights
Orbital flights are the most immersive space tourism experiences currently available. Unlike suborbital flights, which last minutes, orbital space flights involve circling the Earth multiple times at high speed—typically aboard a spacecraft or a module docked to the International Space Station (ISS) or similar station.
Quick Facts:
- Altitude: 300–500 km above Earth
- Duration: Several days to several weeks
- Speed: ~28,000 km/h
- Training: Extensive – physical, safety, and simulation-based
- Providers: Axiom Space, SpaceX (in partnership), Roscosmos (historically)
Highlights of Orbital Space Flights:
- Stay aboard a space station or free-flying capsule
- Experience multiple sunrises and sunsets each day
- Live and sleep in zero gravity
- Use real onboard equipment for hygiene, meals, and sleep
- View Earth from orbit—watch weather systems, cities, oceans, and more
Training Required:
- Survival training (land and sea)
- Emergency procedures
- Use of onboard life-support systems
- Fitness preparation
- Simulated flight sessions and docking maneuvers
Expected Costs:
$55–100+ million per passenger depending on duration, provider, and complexity
Current Options:
- Axiom Space: Partnering with NASA to send private citizens to the ISS
- SpaceX: Offers Dragon capsule missions for private clients (e.g. Inspiration4)
- Russian Roscosmos: Has sent tourists to space aboard Soyuz spacecraft
Want to learn more?
Check out related pages on Training Programs, Private Missions, or Axiom Space.