Recently, US-based space company Orbital Assembly revealed details about their concept for an outer space hotel. The initial designs have been in development and under review since 2019.
(Photo: Orbital Assembly)
The company aims to launch two space stations with accommodations for tourists. One station, called Voyager, is designed to house 400 people and is scheduled to open in 2027. The other station, named Pioneer, with a capacity of 28 people, could be operational within the next three years.
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(Photo: Orbital Assembly)
Orbital Assembly states that their goal is to operate a “business park” in space, catering to both office space and tourist accommodations. Additionally, cost reduction for users is another objective the company is targeting. Tim Alatorre, the CEO of Orbital Assembly, mentioned in an interview, “Our goal has always been to create an environment where a large number of people can live and work and thrive in space.”
Interior renderings of the two mentioned space stations reveal structures that are not much different from luxury hotels on Earth, with the added feature of an outer space view. Artificial gravity within the stations also allows users to have certain amenities as usual, such as shower facilities and the ability to sit down for meals.
It is worth noting that the International Space Station (ISS) has previously hosted tourists, including the world’s first space tourist Dennis Tito in 2001. However, Alatorre believes that the ISS is primarily a place for work and research. In contrast, Orbital Assembly’s “hotels” would provide a different experience, making visitors feel comfortable as if they were at home rather than in a research center.
(Photo: Orbital Assembly)
Speaking about the cost factor, Alatorre mentioned that although space travel tickets are currently very expensive, space tourism should not be limited to billionaires. He said, “We’re doing everything we can to make space travel accessible to all, not just the wealthy.” In addition to cost barriers, operational procedures and ensuring safety are also major concerns. Alatorre and his team are actively working to address these issues and remain confident in the success of space tourism.