NASA's Commercial Astronaut Access: Authorization, Pricing, and Training

NASA recently announced pricing for non-professional astronauts to visit the International Space Station (ISS) using extra seats expected on upcoming SpaceX Crewed Dragon or Boeing Starliner flights. The earliest trips are likely to occur by 2021, marking a significant shift in ISS access.

Pricing for Astronaut Visits

The costs for these flights are substantial, with an estimated price range of tens of millions for the launch alone, plus roughly tens of thousands of dollars per day for living expenses while on the ISS. These high costs reflect the current state of commercial space travel and the stringent requirements for both funding and preparation.

The pricing structure is designed to cater to individuals who wish to conduct research or experiments in space rather than traditional tourists. The goal is to leverage the unique opportunity the ISS provides for scientific and technological advancements.

Who Pays for the Trip?

The customer will bear all costs associated with their visit, including the launch and daily living expenses. This includes not only the flight costs but also the extensive training required to ensure a safe and smooth experience.

Training Requirements

Training is an integral part of the experience, as it equips astronauts with the necessary skills to navigate and survive in space. Basic training will include practical scenarios like what to do if your hand is slapped (a metaphorical term for an emergency protocol) and how to manage in case of an emergency while professionals handle the crisis.

The training is aimed at ensuring that visitors are prepared for emergencies and can operate in confined spaces wearing re-entry suits. This process is far from cheap, underscoring the importance of both financial and physical preparation.

NASA's Role and Partnerships

NASA plays a crucial role in the ISS but cannot independently open its doors to private citizens. However, NASA's recent announcement will allow commercial entities to facilitate such trips for research purposes.

The ISS is a collaborative project between multiple space agencies, including NASA, and several countries worldwide, with Russia playing a significant role in manned missions. In 2001, Dennis Tito became the first non-governmental passenger to the ISS, marking a significant milestone in commercial space travel.

Since then, Russia has flown multiple passengers to the ISS, generating necessary funding for their space program. In 2021, the Russian Space Agency (Roscosmos) signed a deal with Space Adventures to transport two tourists to the ISS, further emphasizing the commercial potential of space travel.

Conclusion

While space tourism is still in its early stages, the ISS's commercialization marks a significant step forward. For those willing to invest substantial resources and undergo rigorous training, this opportunity provides an unparalleled chance to conduct important research and advance our understanding of space.

With the launch of the SpaceX Crewed Dragon and Boeing Starliner, the future of commercial space travel looks bright. As technology continues to evolve and costs become more accessible, we can expect to see an increase in both research and leisure-oriented space travel adventures.

Key Takeaways:

NASA will allow commercial access to the ISS starting in 2021. Flights to the ISS will cost approximately $52 million per person. Training is essential and includes emergency protocols and equipment use. The ISS is a collaborative effort among multiple agencies and countries. Commercial entities like Space Adventures are facilitators for these trips.