Hasta La Gadget!

A concept image of the balloon capsule.

(Credit: World View Enterprises)

Space tourism has been a hot topic for years, with passengers shelling out up to $20 million for a shot at getting out of Earth’s atmosphere. You could end up saving a lot of money if you’re willing to settle for near-space instead. World View Enterprises is planning to launch passenger balloons to more than 98,000 feet above the planet’s surface.

Naturally, a regular hot air balloon won’t work. World View’s concept is to use a massive helium balloon carrying a capsule with up to eight passengers. Those passengers will travel in “shirt sleeves” (aka regular clothes) rather than require pressure suits.

After evaluating the project, the FAA has designated World View’s approach as a commercial space flight. The FAA has written that the Paragon Space Development Corporation-designed capsule will need to be “space qualified” for protecting the occupants at the altitude at which it’s intended to fly.

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