Space tourism companies ask travelers to go through comprehensive medical evaluations so everyone—passengers and crew—stays safe during launch, microgravity, and reentry. These health standards aim to protect individuals and keep the mission running smoothly.
Aerospace medicine specialists run full medical exams for future space tourists. They check cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal strength, and neurological function to spot any hidden risks before you ever board a spacecraft.
Doctors break the process into a few steps. First, they run blood tests, imaging, and check your lungs. Then, they focus on your heart and blood pressure, since microgravity can mess with circulation in surprising ways.
Key examination components include:
Both the space tourism provider’s medical team and your own doctor must sign off before you get the green light. This two-step approval helps catch anything one team might miss.
Fitness requirements differ a bit between companies, but most care about your heart health and basic mobility. You don’t need to be an elite athlete—just healthy enough to handle the ride.
Spacecraft seats and safety gear come in set sizes, so height and weight matter. Virgin Galactic, for example, only takes passengers between 5’0″ and 6’4″, and under 250 pounds. Blue Origin’s New Shepard capsule has nearly identical restrictions.
Doctors look closely at any pre-existing conditions. If you have managed diabetes, controlled high blood pressure, or a history of surgery, you might still qualify after a detailed review. But if you have problems with consciousness, movement, or responding in emergencies, you probably won’t make the cut.
They also check your bone density and muscle strength. While you don’t need astronaut-level training, you must show you can follow safety instructions and move independently if things go sideways.
Most suborbital flights don’t require special vaccines, but companies might suggest certain shots depending on where you launch and how long you’ll be gone. Orbital missions could mean extra health steps.
Health monitoring starts weeks before launch. You’ll get advice on diet, exercise, and medication routines. Some companies ask you to avoid alcohol and specific meds in the days leading up to flight.
After landing, medical teams keep tabs on you to spot any effects from microgravity. Suborbital trips rarely cause lasting issues, but they want to know how your body handled the experience.
Don’t forget about insurance. Regular policies often won’t cover space tourism, so check your coverage or look into specialized space travel insurance through your provider or a third party.
Space tourists need to meet certain cardiovascular and strength benchmarks to handle launch forces up to 4G and get used to microgravity. Training programs focus on endurance, muscle maintenance, and flexibility for life in a cramped spacecraft.
Cardio fitness is the backbone of space trip prep. The launch can slam you with up to four times Earth’s gravity, so your heart and circulation have to be ready.
Companies usually want you to do 30-45 minutes of cardio daily—running, cycling, or rowing are all good options. Aim to keep your heart rate at 70-85% of your max during training sessions.
Essential cardiovascular benchmarks include:
Resistance training fights off the muscle loss that comes with microgravity. Squats, deadlifts, and pull-ups are especially helpful—they mimic the gear astronauts use on the ISS.
Core strength matters a lot in space. Your abs and back muscles keep you steady when gravity isn’t doing the job. Resistance bands fit right in, since they’re similar to what you’ll find on board.
Weight limits depend on the spacecraft, usually between 110 and 300 pounds. Training adapts to your fitness level, but everyone needs to show they can handle emergencies.
You’ll need good joint mobility and balance to deal with microgravity’s weird effects. Most first-timers feel some motion sickness and confusion at first.
Yoga and stretching help you move more easily in tight quarters. Hip flexibility is key when you’re stuck in a seat for a long time. A regular stretching routine lowers your risk of injury in the cabin.
Balance exercises—like using stability balls or standing on one leg—train your inner ear for zero gravity. These drills can make motion sickness less intense and help you adapt faster.
Key flexibility training components:
Parabolic flights let you practice moving in weightlessness before the real deal. You’ll learn to push off gently with your fingertips, not your whole hand, to avoid bouncing off the walls.
In microgravity, slow and steady wins the race. You’ll rotate your body with small arm movements and stop yourself by grabbing a handhold.
What you eat before your flight matters. Nutrition supports your training and keeps your blood pressure steady for those medical checks. Companies track your health closely in the weeks before launch.
Hydration is a big deal for surviving G-forces. Enough fluids help keep your blood where it’s supposed to be, so you don’t black out or lose vision. Stay hydrated all through training.
Nutritional priorities include:
Medical teams might tweak your diet if you have blood pressure or digestive issues that could flare up in microgravity.
Most first-timers get a touch of space motion sickness. Light, easy meals before parabolic flights can help keep nausea at bay.
It’s smart to skip alcohol and too much caffeine while training. Both can mess with your heart and make it harder to sleep, which you’ll really need.
Getting ready for space isn’t just about your body. You’ll need to prep your mind for psychological challenges like confinement, sensory overload, and the mind-bending sight of Earth from above.
Space tourism companies ask for psychological evaluations before they let you fly. They want to know you’re emotionally steady and can handle stress.
Aerospace psychologists handle these checks. You’ll do some interviews and take standardized tests to measure how you cope under pressure.
Key assessment areas include:
Doctors look for any mental health conditions that could get worse in microgravity. If you have depression, severe anxiety, or substance issues, you probably won’t make the cut.
Some companies use simulations to see how you react in mock spacecraft scenarios. They want to see how you handle the pressure before the real thing.
Even short flights can feel isolating. You’re packed into a small space, far from home, and the experience can be overwhelming.
Breathing exercises are a go-to for managing isolation. Slow, controlled breaths help you stay calm when things get tense.
Visualization works wonders. Imagine positive scenes before your flight so you’re ready for the emotional rush of seeing Earth from space.
Effective isolation coping methods:
Training programs teach you to spot early signs of stress. If you catch anxiety early, it’s much easier to manage.
Knowing the isolation is temporary makes a huge difference. Reminding yourself that the flight lasts only minutes or hours can help you stay grounded.
Space flight throws a lot at you: acceleration, weightlessness, strange noises—all at once.
Cognitive reframing helps you see discomfort as just part of the experience, not something dangerous. Training encourages you to accept these sensations as normal.
Grounding exercises are useful in confusing moments. Focusing on an object or counting helps keep your mind steady when your senses get scrambled.
Primary stress management tools:
Simple movements and stretches can help release nervous energy. Even in tight quarters, a little motion goes a long way.
Operators remind passengers that stress is totally normal. Just knowing that can make the whole thing less scary.
Companies offering space tourism run training programs to get you ready for spaceflight’s challenges. How long you train depends on your mission and destination.
Each company takes a different approach. Virgin Galactic runs several days of prep at Spaceport America in New Mexico. Blue Origin keeps things shorter, focusing on safety briefings and basic familiarization.
Physical conditioning plays a big role. You’ll try parabolic flights to get a taste of weightlessness. This helps cut down on motion sickness and gives you a confidence boost.
Safety protocols get a lot of attention. You’ll learn what to do if there’s a fire or cabin depressurization. Hands-on practice with safety gear and comms systems is standard.
Spacecraft systems education walks you through how the vehicle works. You’ll handle real components and spend time in mock-ups to get comfortable with your flight environment.
Simulators recreate launch forces and zero-G sensations so you know what to expect.
Suborbital flights usually need 2-3 days of training. Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin cover the basics: safety, orientation, and some weightlessness practice.
Orbital missions—like SpaceX flights to the ISS—require weeks of training. You’ll need to learn more about spacecraft systems and orbital mechanics.
Longer stays in orbit mean months of prep. You’ll train on life support systems and emergency responses, plus how to live in tight quarters for extended periods.
All programs include medical and fitness checks. Training is flexible enough to fit civilian schedules but still meets strict safety standards.
Space tourists prepare for weightlessness with specialized training that simulates zero gravity before launch. These sessions help reduce motion sickness and boost your confidence for the real microgravity experience.
Parabolic flight training lets space tourists experience weightlessness in short bursts—usually 20 to 30 seconds at a time—aboard specially modified planes. Companies like Zero-G Corporation use Boeing 727s that climb steeply, then dive, so you get those brief microgravity moments.
Over a two-hour session, participants go through multiple parabolas. Each time, you get about 25 seconds to float, push off walls, or even try eating in zero gravity. It’s surprisingly tricky!
Pre-flight prep usually means:
This training helps tourists get used to the odd sensation of floating. A lot of people feel disoriented or clumsy at first. After a few parabolas, you start to get the hang of moving around in zero-G.
Space tourism companies usually make you do at least one parabolic flight before you move on to orbital adventures. It really cuts down the risk of space sickness later.
Neutral buoyancy training happens in huge pools, where you practice space movements underwater. Weighted suits help you float just right, so you feel almost weightless.
These sessions last longer than parabolic flights—usually 30 to 60 minutes underwater. You get to work on orientation and basic zero-gravity moves. The water feels a lot like floating in space, honestly.
Training centers use giant, crystal-clear pools and special equipment. Instructors guide you through movement drills while you wear diving gear and those perfectly weighted suits.
Underwater, you learn to move smoothly without pushing off anything solid. Gentle, controlled movements work best—otherwise, you’ll spin out just like you would in real zero-G.
Space tourism comes in two main flavors: suborbital flights and orbital flights. The differences are pretty huge—altitude, time in space, and the whole experience change depending on which you pick. Suborbital flights give you a quick taste of weightlessness and those amazing Earth views, while orbital trips mean days floating in zero-G.
Suborbital flights shoot you to the edge of space but don’t go all the way around Earth. They cross the Karman line—about 62 miles up—and give you 3 to 5 minutes of weightlessness.
Blue Origin runs New Shepard flights that last around 11 minutes. You get 3 minutes of zero gravity and jaw-dropping views from big windows. Tickets go for $250,000 to $500,000.
Virgin Galactic uses SpaceShipTwo for 90-minute rides. The rocket plane drops from a carrier jet at 50,000 feet, fires up, and rockets to space. Seats cost $450,000.
Both companies want you in decent shape and require a medical check. Training is short—just 2 to 3 days. You’ll prep for G-forces, learn safety stuff, and get familiar with the spacecraft.
During weightlessness, you can float around, try a flip, snap some photos, or just stare at the curve of Earth.
Orbital flights actually circle the planet at 17,500 mph and over 200 miles up. These trips last several days, so you’ll get a lot of time in zero gravity.
SpaceX offers orbital flights in Crew Dragon capsules. The price tag? About $55 million per person for 3 to 8 days in space. You’ll stay in the capsule or maybe visit the International Space Station.
Training for these missions takes 3 to 6 months. You’ll learn how the spacecraft works, what to do in emergencies, and how to handle life support systems. Physical training includes time in a centrifuge to prep for launch and reentry G-forces—up to 4Gs.
Once you’re up there, you’re weightless the whole time. You can run simple experiments, chat with folks on Earth, and watch the sun rise and set every 90 minutes.
You’ll need to learn space toilet basics for multi-day flights. Eating, sleeping, and just moving around in zero-G takes practice.
Space tourists need to know what to do if something goes wrong—like an emergency landing or a problem in the spacecraft. Training covers water survival for ocean landings and what to do in life-threatening situations up there.
Commercial spaceflight passengers go through survival training for emergency landings. Companies work with specialized centers to get you ready for water landings and, just in case, being stuck in the wilderness.
Water survival training teaches you how to get out of a spacecraft in the ocean, inflate a life raft, and signal for help. You’ll practice with emergency gear like beacons and water purifiers.
You’ll learn how to right a flipped raft and keep warm in cold water. Instructors show you how to float properly and work together to stay safe if you’re stuck for a while.
Wilderness survival covers fire building, shelter construction, and signaling with whatever you have. You’ll actually practice these skills outdoors.
You’ll also learn basic first aid and how to use the medical supplies on board. The main thing is to stay calm and follow the plan until rescue teams get to you.
Unlike government astronauts, who train for months, tourists do a shorter course—usually under a week.
Emergency training for space tourists focuses on three main things: fighting fires, dealing with cabin depressurization, and handling medical issues. You’ll need to memorize and practice these steps.
Fire training shows you where to find and how to use fire extinguishers. You’ll learn about different types of fires and how to put them out. Instructors make sure you know how to call ground control right away.
For cabin pressure loss, you’ll practice using emergency oxygen masks. You’ll need to put them on quickly and help others if needed. Training covers how to spot pressure loss and what to do next.
Medical emergency training covers basic first aid, using a defibrillator, and giving emergency meds. You’ll learn how to stabilize someone and talk to ground support about what’s going on.
While astronauts train extensively at places like NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Lab, tourists get a condensed version focused on safety, not running the spacecraft.
You’ll also practice emergency communications—using backup systems and the right terminology to get help fast.
Space tourists have to pack light—there are strict weight limits and safety rules from the flight operators. You need approval for personal items, and all your paperwork must meet federal aviation standards.
Operators give you the flight suit and safety gear. You can’t bring your own spacesuit or life support stuff.
Most companies let you bring one small bag—usually 2 to 5 pounds. Virgin Galactic allows up to 3 pounds; Blue Origin is stricter at 2 pounds.
You can usually bring:
Loose clothing isn’t safe for launch or reentry, so you wear the provided suit. It’s fitted for zero-G movement.
Take everything out of your pockets before flight. Floating stuff can break things or hurt someone in weightlessness.
You’ll need certain documents for suborbital flights. Requirements change depending on where you’re launching from.
You’ll need:
If you’re flying internationally from the US, bring your passport—even for suborbital flights. Some launches might cross borders.
Keep copies of your documents in separate bags. Operators want digital files a month before your flight.
Medical clearances expire after 90 days, so book your final exam close to launch.
The FAA bans dangerous stuff on commercial spacecraft. If you break the rules, you might lose your seat (and your money).
Never bring:
Prescription meds need special approval. You must submit your med list 60 days before launch.
Even small sharp objects—like nail clippers—are out. In a tight spacecraft, little things can be a big problem.
Operators search your stuff before boarding. If they find banned items, they take them away for good.
Space tourism companies aren’t all the same. They differ in safety records, price, and what kind of experience you’ll actually get. Your choice depends on your budget, how adventurous you feel, and which spacecraft you trust.
To pick a safe provider, check their track record and certifications. Virgin Galactic flies SpaceShipTwo under FAA licenses and has already done several crewed flights. Blue Origin’s New Shepard has done dozens of test flights before carrying people.
SpaceX has the strictest standards thanks to NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. Their Crew Dragon has already flown to the ISS. You can find safety info and flight histories on each company’s website.
Medical checks vary a lot. Suborbital flights usually just want to know your heart is healthy. Orbital trips require a full astronaut-style checkup.
Training times are different too. Virgin Galactic does three days of G-force and emergency prep. SpaceX orbital missions mean months of learning spacecraft systems and even spacewalk basics.
Suborbital seats cost $250,000 to $500,000 depending on the company. Blue Origin charges about $250,000 for an 11-minute, 62-mile-high flight. Virgin Galactic asks $450,000 for a 90-minute ride with more time in zero-G.
SpaceX orbital trips cost $55 million per person. These flights can include visits to the ISS or private stations. Deposit requirements range from $20,000 to $150,000, with payment plans available.
Flight schedules depend on weather and which spacecraft are ready. Suborbital launches usually happen monthly. Orbital flights are rarer due to the complexity.
Insurance coverage is all over the place. Space tourism insurance can cost $10,000 to $100,000 based on risk and flight length. Some companies include it, others make you buy your own.
Space tourists usually pick between quick suborbital rides and longer stays on space stations. Your choice—short trip or multi-day adventure—changes your training, your budget, and what you’ll experience up there.
Short-term missions usually last from just 10 minutes up to three days. Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic send their suborbital flights right to the edge of space for a few thrilling minutes. You get a few minutes of weightlessness—maybe three to five—and, honestly, the view of Earth is wild.
If you’re taking one of these brief trips, the training is surprisingly light. Most people only spend a couple of days prepping. The physical demands? Pretty mild. Most healthy adults could handle it without much trouble.
Long-duration missions are a whole different story and can stretch from several days to many months. SpaceX’s Dragon capsule, for example, can support people in orbit for as long as 200 days. These longer trips demand months of tough training and serious physical prep.
The price gap between short and long missions is huge. Suborbital flights go for $250,000 to $450,000 a seat. If you want to stay in orbit for a while, you’re looking at $20-55 million, depending on how long you plan to stay and where you’re headed.
The International Space Station is still the main spot for civilian long-duration trips. Axiom Space and similar companies set up these visits through NASA’s commercial crew program.
Most tourist missions to the space station last about 8-10 days. Passengers need to train for six months before launch, which covers everything from spacecraft operations to emergencies and even a bit of science.
Looking ahead, future space stations should offer even more tourism-focused experiences. Axiom Station, for instance, wants to launch commercial modules with bigger windows and comfier living spaces. These new facilities are coming soon—or so they say.
Medical clearance gets pretty serious for space station trips. Passengers go through health screenings that are similar to what professional astronauts face. This process can drag on for months.
You’ll need to be in great shape for a space station stay. Excellent cardiovascular health is a must, and the fitness tests are no joke. The zero-gravity environment puts some unexpected stress on your body over time.
Travelers in space have to get used to living conditions that are nothing like what we have on Earth. Microgravity and closed-loop life support systems throw some real curveballs at basic daily life.
Space stations and commercial spacecraft rely on advanced systems to keep everyone alive and reasonably comfortable. They use carbon dioxide scrubbers and oxygen generators to maintain breathable air. The air pressure stays close to what we’re used to on Earth, but crews have to monitor it constantly.
Temperature control feels different up there. Since heat doesn’t rise in microgravity, fans have to keep the air moving or you end up with weird hot and cold spots. Travelers often say the temperature feels strange because there’s no natural convection.
Water is precious in space, so they recycle everything. Pumps and filters handle every drop, and you drink from special dispensers or pouches to keep the water from floating away. Even the moisture from your breath and sweat gets collected and reused.
Waste management is a bit awkward, honestly. Airflow replaces gravity to move waste, and everyone has to learn new routines to keep things clean.
Eating in microgravity? It takes some getting used to. Liquids turn into floating blobs that could mess up equipment or even get inhaled, so most food comes in pouches or sealed containers to keep crumbs and bits from drifting around.
Sleeping means strapping yourself into a sleeping bag on the wall. A lot of people have trouble falling asleep without gravity. Eye masks and earplugs help, but it’s just not the same as lying in your own bed.
Personal hygiene gets tricky without running water. Wet wipes stand in for showers, and the toothpaste is designed to be swallowed so you don’t have to spit.
Moving around the spacecraft is its own challenge. You have to learn to push off gently and control your momentum. New arrivals often overdo it and end up bumping into things.
Getting ready for space tourism can feel a bit overwhelming at first.
You’ll probably find yourself sorting out a lot more than just your suitcase.
