Virgin Galactic Successfully Launches First Paying Customers into Space

Virgin Galactic successfully flew its first paying customers to space, reaching an altitude of 52.9 miles above sea level. The mission, named Galactic 01, marked a significant milestone for the company after facing setbacks and a pause in spaceflights. The crew conducted experiments and collected data during the flight, including measuring radiation levels and studying microgravity effects. Virgin Galactic plans to resume monthly space hops, with the next mission, Galactic 02, scheduled for August. The company competes with Blue Origin and SpaceX in the suborbital space tourism sector.