With destination weddings becoming increasingly popular, it’s no wonder that some couples are even thinking of tying the knot in space. A Florida-based company known as Space Perspective is offering betrothed couples the chance to fly up into the stars and gaze down on Earth for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But if you’re planning to tie the knot in space, be prepared to spend a lot of cash because the price tag is out of this world.
The first ever space wedding took place on August 10, 2003 between a U.S. citizen named Ekaterina Dmitrieva and a Russian cosmonaut named Yuri Malenchenko. They got married via a video link, she at NASA headquarters and he on board the International Space Station (ISS), which was in orbit about 300 miles above Earth. She wore a white dress and he donned a bow tie. It wasn’t exactly a traditional ceremony, but it was still one of the most unique weddings in history and sparked interest in space exploration for decades to come.
Since then, astronauts and cosmonauts have had to wait until they are out of space on a mission to celebrate their nuptials, although many contracts that cosmonauts sign include a clause banning them from doing so. But now, the general public can take part in this extraordinary experience. The company that offers the space wedding is called Space Perspective, and its founders are two former crew members of the Biosphere 2 experiment in Arizona. They also worked on the ISS, so they know what it takes to get there.
The company will start taking bookings for the space wedding in 2024. The journey will last for six hours and passengers will board a carbon-neutral balloon with enormous windows, which are designed to offer the best view of Earth possible.
After all, astronauts say that seeing our planet from space is a life-changing experience that can change your outlook on things. Space Perspective says they have created the trip to be exhilarating but also relaxing, so that passengers can fully enjoy the incredible view.
The Neptune flight will also be propelled by renewable hydrogen, without the use of rockets and their resulting carbon footprint. The company has already sold 1,000 seats and intends to debut the trip in 2024.
Another upcoming space-related wedding will be hosted on the Voyager Station, an orbiting starship designed much like a cruise ship. This cosmic cruiser will feature restaurants, bars, entertainment options, and luxury guest suites and is expected to open in 2027.
It’s not quite as nerve-wracking as a full space flight, but it’s enough to make you want to start planning your big day right away. So, if you’re ready to get married out of this world, head over to Space Perspective’s website to reserve your spot. And don’t forget to pack your passport!