The Future of Space Tourism: Luxury Space Cruises and Lunar Resorts
Most people who follow space exploration are aware of the Boeing Starliner and the media’s implication that its two-astronaut crew are stranded in space. According to this article, however, “that couldn’t be further from the truth.” (Spoiler alert, everything is going according to plan based upon circumstances and necessity.) But what if the unexpected did cause problems?
In an earthbound world we’re familiar with the usual collection of ills and pitfalls, such as car accidents, health problems, crime, and events such as power failures or natural disasters.
We have not advanced our mindset to encompass the new risks and dangers of space exploration, but that moment has arrived. Within years, not lifetimes, everyday people will be able to ride into space. It may even become possible to visit the Moon, or Mars, as we turn fiction into reality and colonize other worlds.
Can you imagine taking a luxury “space cruise” that puts you in orbit around the Earth, with a choice of “Earthside” or “spaceside” rooms? Instead of worrying about rough seas the concern will be asteroid storms or solar flares. Crew members may float by your window to perform repairs while you dine on lobster tails and steak, sipping champagne. Excursions would involve getting into a space suit and heading out for a space tour, the tour guide’s voice transmitted to your helmet’s speaker.
How about a trip to the Moon? There will be moon resorts and lunar excursions on specially designed moon buggies, classes on walking under low gravity, and tours of the various moon mining operations. Oxygen running low? Head for the nearest emergency oxygen booth for a quick refill before you can return to the main facility. Suit rips? Hopefully you brought along your space suit patch repair kit.
New possibilities bring new problems, and we’ll need to understand and face these as we spring forward to the exciting future. Did you catch a cold before you arrived–where is the nearest pharmacy and doctor’s office? Did a fellow passenger swipe your wallet– Where is the nearest police station?
What are your thoughts on the real life circumstances of the future in space exploration? Please comment below.
