What Is Sub-orbital Flight And Why Is It Important? Here's The Explanation

Penerbangan sub-orbital Virgin Galactic (Digital Trends)

JAKARTA - A few days ago, it was widely reported that Sir Richard Branson's success in flying Virgin Galactic's spacecraft, VSS Unity. Like racing, Jeff Bezos also plans to make sub-orbital flights using his home-made plane, Blue Origin's New Shepard.

The success of these two flights is the basis for the emergence of space tourism. And in the midst of the boisterous discussion of experts and fans alike, the term sub-orbital flight is also frequently used.

But, what exactly is sub-orbital spaceflight? Besides, why does this flight seem so important that it is targeted by tycoons and billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson?

The following is an explanation that has been summarized by the VOI team from various sources, Monday, July 12.

Definition of Sub-orbital Flight

Quoting The Conversation, the definition of a sub-orbital space flight is a short space flight without completing one round (orbit) of the earth. That is, the plane only flies briefly to touch the boundary of the earth and outer space, and then comes back down to the surface.

If a spacecraft – or anything headed for space – reaches a speed of 28,000 km/h or more, instead of descending straight to the surface, it will descend on a trajectory around Earth.

Anything that is launched into space, but does not have sufficient velocity to survive in a vacuum – such as the rockets made by the two companies, will descend back to earth. Therefore, the flight is referred to as a suborbital trajectory.

Why is Sub-orbital Flight Important?

This flight is actually nothing new. For the past few years, the intentions of Virgin Galaxtic and Blue Origin have received serious attention from observers, economists, and space experts.

Indeed, the two flights launched this July will not reach orbit. However, the achievement of a commercial spacecraft into space is an important point in the history of mankind.

The reason is, the success of the two flights will be a stepping stone for space tourism activities. A vacation that provides tourists with the beauty of outer space.

Not only that, every passenger on the flight, which is managed commercially by a private company, will be able to feel the sensation of life in outer space for a few minutes. Including the experience of floating as well as wearing an astronaut costume.

It is estimated that we will see more news about this flight in the future. Interested in following?