What Elon Musk’s idea, once considered foolish by many in the space sector, has turned out to be pioneering. The primary challenge for commercial space travel was single-use launch systems for the longest time. SpaceX has overcome this obstacle with several successful missions using its reusable platforms. On the other hand, the introduction of the VSS Imagine serves as a reminder that Virgin Galactic is still very much in the competition.
Richard Branson’s ambition to establish one of the world’s premier space tourism companies is evident. While Musk’s team appears to be concentrating on expanding its aerospace presence across various fronts. The VSS Imagine represents the first spacecraft in Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShip III series, sharing design elements with the SpaceShipTwo.
Opting for a more dazzling appearance, the VSS Imagine abandons traditional color schemes. Its exterior, featuring a mirror-polished silver finish with blue accents on some sections, is undoubtedly striking. Collectively, it exudes an aura of advanced aerospace engineering.
The striking scheme also serves a functional purpose, providing thermal protection. Virgin Galactic asserts that the SpaceShip 3 line will enhance performance in terms of maintenance access and flight frequency, setting the stage for the future design and production of spacecraft.
Despite the prevailing struggles faced by many businesses in various sectors due to the pandemic, Virgin Galactic shows no signs of halting its development. In fact, the VSS Imagine is set for testing this summer, with work on the second SpaceShip 3-class vessel, the VSS Inspire, already underway.
Image Source: CNBC
