In partnership with CST, the mission marks a major step for space tourism and Saudi Vision 2030
HALO Space Expands to Saudi Arabia:
HALO Space, a global leader in space tourism, will conduct its sixth test flight in Saudi Arabia this September. This milestone is part of a strategic collaboration with the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). The flight supports Saudi Vision 2030 and highlights the Kingdom’s growing role in near-space exploration.
The upcoming mission will launch a real-size prototype capsule named Aurora, designed to ascend 30 kilometers above Earth. The test will validate key systems developed over the past three years.
Flight Goals and System Validation:
HALO Space’s Chief Technology Officer, Alberto Castrillo, emphasized the importance of this test. “This mission is designed to meticulously validate all our critical systems,” he said. The timing and location were chosen for their technical reliability and safety.
CST has supported HALO Space throughout 2024, overseeing safety and regulatory procedures. The mission strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as an ideal location for space exploration and technological innovation.
Ensuring Safety and Regulatory Compliance:
As part of its enabling role in the civil space sector, CST has worked closely with HALO Space and other authorities, including the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). Their focus is on maintaining safety and meeting regulatory requirements.
Frank Salzgeber, Acting Deputy Governor for Space Sector at CST, noted, “This project represents a significant step forward in space tourism. CST is committed to enabling such innovations while ensuring safety.”
Private-Public Collaboration and Innovation:
HALO Space is also supported by Arthur D. Little (ADL) through its Breakthrough Incubator program. ADL continues to provide strategic guidance for HALO Space’s expansion.
Thomas Kuruvilla, Managing Partner at ADL Middle East and board member of HALO Space, stated, “This initiative showcases Saudi Arabia’s leadership in technological innovation and its vibrant tourism ecosystem.”
HALO Space’s CEO, Carlos Mira, added, “Our collaboration with CST ensures that our near-space experiences meet the highest safety standards.”
Looking Ahead: Commercial Space Tourism by 2026:
HALO Space aims to launch manned flights by 2025, with commercial flights to follow in 2026. These journeys will elevate passengers to 35 kilometers in a balloon-lifted spacecraft, offering stunning views of Earth’s curvature and the darkness of space.
Each journey will span over six hours and travel up to 200 kilometers horizontally, combining comfort, safety, and inspiration.
By 2030, the company plans to make space tourism accessible to 10,000 passengers, significantly boosting Saudi Arabia’s space and tourism sectors. The experience will blend hospitality, space education, and entertainment, creating a new frontier in global travel.
