XCOR Space Expeditions
XCOR Space Expeditions offers flights in the XCOR Aerospace Lynx Mark I, reaching the edge of space at an altitude of 60 kilometers. The Lynx Mark II reaches the internationally recognized boundary of space, more than 100 kilometers above Earth. The flight path for both spacecraft is similar and equally exciting.
PRE-LAUNCH PROTOCOL
Unlike all other previously developed spacecraft, including the Space Shuttle, XCOR’s Lynx spacecraft is equipped with an independent takeoff and landing system. The ship’s four revolutionary rocket engines can be shut down and restarted in-flight at any time. There are no disposable carrier rockets or landings at sea. Lynx simply departs from the runway at any spaceport, and glides back to a runway on return. You will find yourself sitting next to the pilot. The four engines start. Your space voyage has begun.
1. LAUNCHED LIKE A BULLET
Astronauts say there is nothing that rivals the sensation of being launched from a rolling start. Within one minute, you will break the sound barrier. As you ascend you will see the Earth’s surface morphed into swaths of color while pressed into your seat.
2. MACH 3: SPYPLANE TERRITORY
You feel the enormous acceleration caused by the four powerful rocket engines. Soon you reach Mach 2.9. Only a handful of CIA and KGB pilots know what’s it like. So will you.
3. ENGINE CUT-OFF: PERFECT SILENCE
One moment it’s all roaring rocket engines, G-forces and vibrations. The next: perfect silence, unlike anything you have experienced on Earth. Astronauts say this is one of the most profound moments of space flight.
4. INSTANT WEIGHTLESSNESS
At engine switch-off, you are weightless. An extreme sensation.
5. 103 KM, PAST THE KÁRMÁN LINE
You’re in Space and officially an astronaut. 6 Minutes of enjoying Planet Earth as only 500 people have done before.
6. THE PULL OUT MANEUVER
While returning into the Earth’s atmosphere, Lynx pulls 4 G’s in order to reduce speed. Only 20 seconds but truly, not a picnic.
7. ON THE WINGS OF AN ANGEL
Enjoy the view during the 40 minute glide back to Earth.
8. WING CEREMONY
After your return, XCOR will award you your astronauts wings in the company of your personal guests.
XCOR offers three programs: The Pioneer, Founder Astronaut and Future Astronaut Program.
