Virgin Galactic has revealed it is on course to begin commercial space flights next year, with individual tickets available from $450,000 (£324,000).
In June the Federal Aviation Administration approved a full commercial launch licence for the company, paving the way for travellers to head nearly 300,000 feet (approximately 56 miles) above Earth.
Tickets on sale include single seats as well as multi and full-flight packages, with those who registered interest early to be given first priority.
Chief executive Michael Colglazier said the move to reopen ticket sales stems from a surge in consumer interest that followed successful spaceflights in May and July. Owner Sir Richard Branson travelled as a passenger himself on a flight on 11 July.
“We successfully completed two spaceflights from New Mexico – the latest carrying a full crew of mission specialists in the cabin and garnering an extraordinary global media and consumer response,” said Colgazier.
“As we endeavour to bring the wonder of space to a broad global population, we are delighted to open the door to an entirely new industry and consumer experience.”
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Following his flight in July, meanwhile, Branson said: “It was a lifetime dream. Dreams don’t often turn into reality, and it was just wonderful.
“One of the most ridiculous moments is, having said a few words, just unbuckling and just drifting off one’s feet, then floating on top of the roof and looking down at our beautiful Earth, and seeing other people floating past you and realising ‘I’m an astronaut’.”
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