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Space flight in Saudi Arabia: Kingdom to host landmark mission in September

HALO Space expects to operate commercial flights in 2026
Space flight in Saudi Arabia: Kingdom to host landmark mission in September
HALO Space's prototype capsule test flights are a prelude to the launch of manned flights, which the company expects to commence in 2025 (Image: HALO Space)

HALO Space, a global leader in space tourism, in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), announced that it will conduct its next test flight in the Kingdom this September. This significant milestone marks HALO Space’s sixth test flight. In addition, it aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, underscoring the Kingdom’s leadership in near-space exploration.

Capsule to fly 30 kilometers above Earth’s surface

The upcoming test flight in Saudi Arabia will feature HALO Space’s real-size prototype capsule, Aurora. The capsule will ascend to 30 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. With this test flight, the company aims to validate the integrated operation of all critical systems it developed over the past three years.

“This mission is designed to meticulously validate all the critical systems we’ve been developing for the past three years,” stated Alberto Castrillo, chief technology officer of HALO Space. The company also set the dates and location to ensure the reliable operation of equipment and safe conditions for the teams that will operate the test flight.

For his part, Frank Salzgeber, Acting Deputy Governor for Space Sector at CST, stated: “Along with its regulatory mandate, CST is also undertaking an enabling role within the civil space sector, through fostering innovative business models, promoting space exploration activities, and supporting joint efforts with relevant authorities to develop the space sector.

Halo Space Saudi Arabia
(Source: Halo Space)

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Commercial flights to operate in 2026

HALO Space’s prototype capsule test flights are a prelude to the launch of manned flights, which the company expects to commence in 2025. In addition, HALO Space expects to operate commercial flights in 2026.

“Collaborating closely with both private and public institutions to adopt safety standards and certification procedures is key to our mission. Our collaboration with CST underscores our commitment to creating the safest near-space flight experience possible,” added Carlos Mira, CEO of HALO Space.

These flights will allow enthusiasts to rise comfortably and safely to an altitude of 35 kilometers in a balloon-lifted spacecraft. The journey spans up to 200 kilometers horizontally and lasts over six hours. Therefore, it provides passengers with the opportunity to witness the Earth’s curvature and the vastness of space.

By 2030, HALO Space aims to make space tourism accessible to a broad audience. It plans to service 10,000 passengers from the launch of its commercial operations until the end of this decade. This initiative will enhance Saudi Arabia’s space and tourism ecosystem. Moreover, it will contribute to offering a unique blend of hospitality, space education, and entertainment experiences in the Kingdom.

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