Planet earth from the space at night
getty
Space tourism officially took off in 2021, with flights by both Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin – but most of us felt at least a little left out when it became apparent that it will take quite a while for these companies to fly all of the passengers who’ve reserved flights. And that future tickets will likely stay in the multi-six-figure range for years to come.
We enjoy many technological benefits of space here on earth, but interest in the industry has only grown thanks to space tourism flights, Elon Musk’s headline-grabbing Starship testing, and news about NASA’s ongoing attempts to reach the Moon and Mars in the next few decades.
Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a way for those beyond the ultra-rich to visit space too? That’s part of the mission of Space for Humanity, the Colorado-based non-profit that aims to “[build] a foundation for an inclusive future in space.” Part of the company’s focus is on increasing access to experience the Overview Effect, a psychological phenomenon whereby those who have seen Earth from space come back motivated to enact positive change – typically in environmentalism, though astronauts affected by the Overview have done positive work in many different industries over the years.
“Five minutes of weightlessness and a beautiful view of the Earth can be transformational, but it’s not enough if we’re trying to create real impact on Earth,” says Nicole Stott, retired astronaut and Space for Humanity advisor. “What leads up to and what follows the spaceflight will be what makes the real difference in how Space for Humanity’s participants change the world.”
To this end, English-speaking prospective astronauts can apply for Space for Humanity’s Citizen Astronaut Program; applications close on February 15th, so now’s the time if you want to throw your hat in the ring..
If selected for the mission, dubbed “Humanity-1,” you’ll receive training, a flight to space with with Blue Origin, Virgin Galactic, or Space Perspective, and leadership training to help channel each citizen astronaut’s Overview Effect into positive change.
In addition to being 18 years or older and a proficient English speaker, Space for Humanity lists the following criteria for prospective applicants:
- Passion for humanity and a desire to positively impact the world.
- Currently serving in a community leadership role.
- Clear understanding and commitment to Space for Humanity mission
- Demonstrated leadership and effective communication skills
- Effective and compelling communicator
- Self motivated problem solver
- Authentic, open and empathetic
The application is complex, and the company estimates it will take 60-90 minutes to complete the process; this is certainly less costly than saving up to buy your own ticket to space! Applications will be accepted until February 15th, and the winners will be announced at some point during the spring this year.
