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Adventure
to Space: FAQ, Page 1
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When will
flights begin?
We hope to begin taking passengers into space sometime within
the next four years. Your Incredible Adventures representative will
be happy to keep you advised of our production and flight schedules.
How long
is the flight?
Current
plans call for a two-hour, 30-minute flight experience. The suborbital
flights of the Mercury astronauts, by comparison, lasted less than 25 minutes,
with almost as much time spent under the parachutes after reentry as all
of the rest of the flight. The actual time "in space" will be
approximately 10 minutes. Some define "space" as an altitude
above 100,000 feet, where the sky becomes black….others define "space"
as the time spent weightless, and still others describe it as the time
at astronaut altitude. A longer flight could jeopardize the enjoyment of
the experience by increasing the g-forces needed to return from space.
At 100 km,
what exactly will I get to see?
You will be able to see the curvature and glow of the Earth. (To see the
entire circumference of the Earth, you would need to be over 3200 km high.)
You will see both horizons, some landmasses, weather patterns and stars.
Exterior cameras will enhance the viewing.
How fast will
we fly?
During the first portion of the flight (from the airfield to approximately
50,000 feet), the Sky Lifter will carry the Space Cruiser at speeds of
up to 250 mph (402.5 km/hr). At the time of the climb to 100 km, the Space
Cruiser will be flying at its top speed of over 2000 mph (3220 km/hr).
Why is the
voyage so expensive?
When you consider all the factors, it's really inexpensive. NASA spends
an average of $100 million per astronaut on a typical shuttle flight. To
fly as a passenger on an existing rocket booster would cost an estimated
$500,000 per person. You can be one of the first civilians in space for
less than ½ the cost of a Ferrari sports car.
How can I be
certain it is safe?
The Space Cruiser must be licensed by the FederalAviation Administration.
Licensing will only be granted after the Space Cruiser has successfully
passed numerous safety tests.
How extensively
will the Space Cruiser be tested before passengers are allowed to fly?
Safety is our number one priority. The vehicle will be rigorously tested
by top pilots and engineers from the prestigious National Test Pilot's
School. This process will take about two years, but it is a process we
do not wish to rush.
What type of
physical condition must I be in?
The program is intended for people in generally good health, without physical
disabilities that could create a hazard for other participants. A medical
screening questionnaire, similar to one used for scuba diving, will be
issued to you. A private health screening by a physician will be conducted
at the orientation briefing.
How many g's
will I experience?
The Space Cruiser is being designed for passenger comfort. Under normal
flight conditions, passengers will experience no more than 2 g's. On a
typical roller coaster ride, you'd experience 3 or 4 g's.
Is this safe
for people with heart conditions, high blood pressure, etc.?
This will be addressed on the health form. It is very important that you
review the form carefully with your healthcare professional.
Is there an
age limit?
No, however each participant must be judged capable of meeting minimum
health, psychological and strength requirements. Minor children must be
accompanied by a responsible adult and should be physically capable of
activating emergency equipment. We do not wish to deny space access to
anyone, as long as we are not endangering anyone's health or safety.
Will we do
anything on the flight besides look out the window and take pictures?
You will be able to try all sorts of activities during the weightless
experience. The weightless segment will be "choreographed" prior
to your flight to allow you the maximum enjoyment and use of this special
time. Throughout the rest of the flight, you'll be involved in tracking
communications between ground control and the pilot and learning about
the flight status from your expedition leader/co-pilot.
| The technology
exists today. We don't need innovative technology. We need only technology
suitable for the job. |
Please visit us again soon for
updates, give us a call at 800-644-7382, or use this
form to to learn more.
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