British Billionaire, Sir Richard Branson, completed his flight into space aboard a Virgin Galactic vessel – named Unity which is a sub-orbital vehicle.
Branson described the journey as the “experience of a lifetime” and one that he hopes will usher in an era of lucrative space tourism.
The mission’s success allowed the billionaire to one-up fellow tycoon, Jeff Bezos – who owns space company Blue Origin and is set to launch on 20 July – in the race to the final frontier.
“I have dreamt of this moment since I was a kid, but honestly nothing could prepare you for the view of Earth from space,” he said, grinning during a post-flight ceremony where he and crewmates received their astronaut wings, before popping open the champagne to celebrate.
SpaceX boss Elon Musk, who came to offer his support and watch the flight, quickly tweeted, “Congratulations, beautiful flight!”
Jeff Bezos posted a photo of Unity on his Instagram page after Branson’s space trip offering his congratulations. “Can’t wait to join the club!” he wrote.
Sources: Business Insider, BBC
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