Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic is set to launch its first commercial spaceflight in just a matter of weeks. The company said it is "ready to fly its first customers to space".
Virgin Galactic currently has two planned flights. The first mission - named Galactic 01 - will fly between June 27 and June 30. It will carry three crew members from the Italian Air Force and the National Research Council of Italy, who will be conducting microgravity research.
The second flight, Galactic 02, will take place in August this year. Galactic 02 will carry private astronauts.
Michael Colglazier, Virgin Galactic's CEO, said: “We are launching the first commercial spaceline for Earth with two dynamic products — our scientific research and private astronaut space missions. This next exciting chapter for Virgin Galactic has been driven by innovation, determination and a commitment to delivering an unparalleled and truly transformative customer experience.”
The spaceflights have been given the go-ahead after Virgin Galactic successfully completed its Unity 25 spaceflight. Following the August launch, the company intends to launch monthly flights thereafter.
Livestreams of both the Galactic 01 and Galactic 02 launches will be available to watch online. They will be streamed at www.VirginGalactic.com.
