The spaceplane Unity, operated by the Virgin Galactic company, has safely returned to Earth after its mission took it to the edge of space, carrying three tourists and three crew members.
The rocket-propelled craft was launched from a carrier plane above New Mexico, with tourists Keisha Shahag and her daughter Anastasia Meyers from Aberdeen on board, having won their spots on the space trip as a prize. Also among them was former Olympian John Goodwin from Newcastle, who became the first space tourism ticket holder 18 years ago when the price was $250,000.
After completing its route, the spacecraft smoothly landed at the “Spaceport America” facility in New Mexico. Virgin Galactic is set to begin monthly space tourism flights soon. Currently, the company’s waiting list comprises 800 individuals.
Photo: Virgin Galactic