Future Virgin Galactic astronauts fly with ZERO-G
Monday 14, October 2013
Some of those who have purchased seats aboard Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic flights got an early taste of the weightlessness they will experience during their upcoming trips to space.
Teaming up with the Zero Gravity Corporation (ZERO-G), Virgin Galactic provided Future Astronauts the opportunity to experience zero gravity before leaving the Earth’s atmosphere.
Over the course of three flights in Burbank, California, some of Virgin Galactic’s Future Astronauts climbed aboard a specially modified Boeing-727, known as G-FORCE ONE®. The partnership allowed Virgin Galactic to offer ZERO-G flights to their passengers at a preferred price and enjoy the experience alongside their fellow Future Astronauts in preparation for their upcoming space flights, expected to begin in 2014.
During each ZERO-G flight, specially trained pilots perform a series of parabolic arcs to create a weightless environment, allowing Flyers to float, flip and soar through the plane as if they are in space. These flights are not simulated – ZERO-G is the first and only FAA-approved provider of commercial weightless airplane flights for the public.
“We are excited about this new relationship and look forward to introducing even more Virgin Galactic Future Astronauts to the amazing feeling of weightlessness,” said Terese Brewster, President and COO of ZERO-G. “These flights are definitely an enhancement to their upcoming trip on SpaceShipTwo.”
"It's an utterly amazing feeling to be floating in zero-G. It's literally out of this world!" said Joanne Le Bon, Virgin Galactic Future Astronaut and ZERO-G flyer.
So far, more than 640 people from around the world have put down a deposit to fly with Virgin Galactic. The test flight program is well underway, and commercial operations are expected to begin in 2014.
Latest news
Tourism
Business travelers want latest technology and best gadgets
Auckland Zoo named one of NZ elite tourist attractions
Caribbean and Mediterranean losing beach tourism market to Southeast Asia
Aviation
Boeing: China will lead the Asia Pacific region in new airplane deliveries
British Airways begins installing new seats in Euro Traveller cabin
American Airlines drops free meals on short haul flights
Hospitality
First capsule hostel to open in Antwerp, Belgium
Marriott named to World's Most Innovative Companies List
Marriott Hotels debuts - healthy vending machine
Find the best deals available today
The grey menu on the right is your best friend. Always check before you travel.
Plan your trips with the help of great resources
More and more travellers think that researching and planning a European city break is half the fun and they're not interested in pre-arranged trips or escorted tours. Self-guided tours offer a lot of advantages but require some guidance and good resources.
Clean, green and very pristine
Top 10 most environmentally pure countries
With the recent wild fires, disrupting flights and increasing air pollution, environmental quality is a growing factor in attracting tourists.
Rooftop
Top 15 most spectacular hotel rooftop views
The hotel price comparison site www.trivago.co.uk has put together a list of the fifteen most spectacular hotel rooftop terraces in the world.
Pro city guides
Places by themes
Latest offers, discounts and more...
Accor “3=2 offerâ€Why not extend your stay? 3 nights for the price of 2.
Columbus Direct travel insuranceQuality cover at low prices to customers all around the world.
Priority passAccess VIP lounges no matter where which airline and class you fly.
European City CardsSee more and pay less! Get your "passport" to European cities.
Rail EuropeComfortable and affordable on European trains.
Lonely Planet MagazinePacked with insider knowledge, hints and tips.
Sandemans New Europe City ToursFree walking tours in 13 cities within 9 countries.
Sol Melia WednesdaysSearch your exclusive special offers now for the coming weekend!
TransfersLow-cost shuttle and private transfers in over 70 countries.
IMEX Frankfurt 25-27 MayThe essential worldwide exhibition for incentive travel, meetings and events.
