The idea of looking at Earth from orbit, staying in a luxurious hotel, has long been a staple of science fiction movies. However, this concept is now moving from fiction to the engineering design phase. As the cost of space travel decreases and technological progress increases, the first guests could experience space accommodation in the coming years.
The Most Prominent Space Hotel Projects
1. Orbital Assembly Corporation (OAC) – Voyager Station
The Voyager Station project (and its smaller version, Pioneer Station) is probably the most well-known plan for a space hotel. OAC envisions a massive rotating space station that would be able to simulate gravity.
- Concept: The station would be shaped like a giant rotating wheel. The rotation would create a centrifugal force that would simulate gravity similar to that on the Moon, which would make life on board significantly easier.
- Amenities: The planned hotel would host up to 400 people and would offer luxurious amenities such as cinemas, restaurants, bars, and wellness centers.
2. Axiom Space – Commercial Space Station
Axiom Space has a more concrete and phased plan. It is currently building commercial modules for the International Space Station (ISS). After years of operation, these modules will detach from the ISS and form a new, independent commercial space station.
- Concept: Instead of a hotel in the true sense of the word, it’s more of a space station with accommodation options for private astronauts and space tourists. Services would include high-end research and commercial missions.
- Amenities: The interior is planned to be designed with luxury and comfort in mind, in collaboration with renowned designers. The modules would serve as a fully functional workspace and living quarters for the crew and guests.
3. Orbital Reef
Orbital Reef, a project collaborating with Blue Origin and Sierra Space, is designed as a commercial space park. Although not exclusively for tourism, it will also serve for research, industry, and entertainment.
- Concept: The goal is to create a “business park” in low-Earth orbit that will be accessible to governmental and private organizations, as well as individuals.
- Amenities: Modular spaces will be available for various entities to rent. These modules will offer research laboratories as well as living quarters for those who simply want to enjoy a stay in space.
What You Need to Know Before Your Space Trip
Besides the high cost, which currently runs in the tens of millions of dollars per seat, preparation is also key. Space tourists must undergo complex training to handle microgravity conditions and deal with potential emergency situations. However, with the advancement of technology, space travel will become increasingly accessible to a wider public.