Since 2021, Blue Origin has offered aspiring astronauts and adventurers the chance to experience space travel through its New Shepard program, launching from Launch Site One near Van Horn, Texas.
The program takes participants on a suborbital flight past the Kármán line, the internationally recognized boundary of space 62 miles (100 kilometers) above Earth. Passengers can enjoy a few minutes of weightlessness and stunning views of the planet from the capsule’s oversized windows, which make up one-third of its surface area.
Blue Origin’s space tourism flights have drawn attention for their fully reusable spacecraft and eco-friendly design. Nearly 99% of the rocket’s dry mass is reused, and its engines produce no carbon emissions, only water vapor.
To prepare for the journey, participants undergo a two-day astronaut training program, where they learn safety protocols, mission procedures, and how to handle zero-gravity conditions. Training takes place at Blue Origin’s facility in Van Horn, and participants stay at Astronaut Village, a scenic retreat offering opportunities for camaraderie and breathtaking views of the West Texas landscape.
Safety has been a top priority for Blue Origin. The New Shepard spacecraft has completed rigorous testing, including a crew escape system that has been successfully demonstrated during all phases of flight.
Over the past few years, Blue Origin has flown numerous individuals, including high-profile guests and private citizens, making space tourism more accessible than ever before. Each flight is designed to leave participants “forever changed,” as they gain a new perspective on the planet and humanity’s place in the universe.
For those seeking an unforgettable adventure, Blue Origin’s flights out of Van Horn, Texas, continue to offer a front-row seat to the wonders of space.
To learn more or book a flight, visit Blue Origin’s website.
Photo Credit: Blue Origin
