VSS Imagine: Virgin Galactic’s Third-Generation Spaceship
Virgin Galactic revealed VSS Imagine, its first SpaceShip III vehicle, in March 2021. The announcement marked another step in the company’s plans for a growing fleet. In addition, it introduced a new generation of spaceship design.
Testing Plans for VSS Imagine
At the time, Virgin Galactic planned ground testing before glide flights from its spaceport in New Mexico. Meanwhile, it expected VSS Unity’s next test flight in May 2021. These were separate vehicles with different roles in the programme.
SpaceShip III aimed to improve performance, maintenance access and flight frequency. As a result, the company saw the design as a benchmark for future vehicles. However, testing remained an essential part of bringing those plans forward.
Building a Growing Fleet
Alongside VSS Imagine, Virgin Galactic continued work on VSS Inspire, its second SpaceShip III vehicle. The company also described an ambition to fly 400 flights per year, per spaceport. This figure represented a goal rather than an established flight schedule.
Founder Richard Branson linked the spaceship programme to a change in perspective. In particular, he hoped travellers would return from space with fresh ideas for life on Earth. Read Virgin Galactic’s original announcement for the company’s account.
What VSS Imagine Means for Space Enthusiasts
A new vehicle gives readers a chance to follow the development process. For example, an unveiling, a ground test and a flight test each tell a different part of the story. Therefore, it helps to distinguish the design ambitions from the milestones a programme has completed.
This article records the plans discussed in 2021. For anyone exploring a future experience, the next step is to ask about the relevant vehicle and preparation. In addition, clear information about availability can help shape realistic expectations.
Explore Space Experiences with RocketBreaks
To learn more, explore RocketBreaks’ suborbital space experiences. Alternatively, contact the team to discuss your interests and questions.