Blue Origin Space Tourism: How Flights Work & What to Expect

Blue Origin’s New Shepard space tourism flights offer a brief suborbital ride to the edge of space and back. This guide explains the entire process—from booking and training to the flight itself and landing—so you know exactly what happens before, during, and after your journey.

What You’ll Need

• A confirmed ticket with Blue Origin (price and availability are managed by the company)
• Valid government-issued ID for security and check-in
• Comfortable, non-restrictive clothing (provided flight suit is worn over it)
• Closed-toe shoes for the launch site
• Medical clearance form (provided by Blue Origin, must be completed by your physician)
• Time: plan for a 3–4 day commitment including travel, training, and the launch day

Step-by-Step

1. Book your seat. Reservations are made through Blue Origin’s official website or authorized sales channels. You’ll pay a deposit and sign a liability waiver. The full price is due before your scheduled launch window.
2. Complete medical screening. Blue Origin requires a health questionnaire and a physical exam by your doctor. Certain conditions (e.g., uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent heart surgery) may disqualify you. The company will review your form and give final approval.
3. Travel to the launch site. Flights depart from Launch Site One in West Texas, near the town of Van Horn. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the nearest airport (El Paso or Midland) and then drive or take a shuttle to the site.
4. Attend pre-flight training (Day 1–2). Upon arrival, you’ll join a group of up to five other passengers. Training includes:
   • Safety briefing and emergency procedures
   • Familiarization with the capsule interior and seats
   • Practice of the launch and landing positions (seated, reclined)
   • Instructions on using the communications system
5. Don your flight suit. On launch day, you’ll change into the provided blue flight suit. It’s lightweight and designed for comfort. You’ll also receive a headset for communicating with the crew.
6. Board the capsule. About 30 minutes before liftoff, you’ll climb the tower and enter the crew capsule. You’ll be strapped into your seat by the crew. The capsule is spacious—about 530 cubic feet—with large windows and six seats.
7. Launch and ascent. The New Shepard rocket ignites and lifts off vertically. The ascent is smooth but forceful—you’ll feel about 3 times the force of gravity (3 g) for roughly 2 minutes. The rocket separates from the capsule at an altitude of about 75 km (46 miles).
8. Experience weightlessness. After separation, the capsule continues upward on its own momentum. For about 3–4 minutes, you’ll be in zero gravity. You can unbuckle and float around the cabin, looking out the large windows at the curvature of the Earth and the blackness of space.
9. Descent and re-entry. The capsule begins to fall back to Earth. As it enters the thicker atmosphere, you’ll feel deceleration forces of about 5 g. The capsule’s reaction control system fires to orient it, and then three parachutes deploy—first drogue chutes, then the main chutes. The ride down is gentle, with a soft landing cushioned by a retro-thrust system that fires just before touchdown.
10. Post-landing. The capsule lands in the West Texas desert. Crew members open the hatch and help you exit. You’ll be greeted with applause and a celebration. You’ll receive a certificate and have time to share your experience with the media (if you choose).

Common Mistakes

• Underestimating the g-forces. The 5 g re-entry can be intense. If you have any back or neck issues, discuss them with your doctor. During training, practice the brace position to avoid injury.
• Not following the medical clearance process. Skipping or rushing the medical form can delay your flight. Start the paperwork as soon as you book.
• Overpacking. You’ll be in a small capsule with limited storage. Bring only essentials—a small bag for the launch site, not a full suitcase.
• Ignoring the weather. Launch windows can be delayed due to weather. Keep your schedule flexible and avoid booking tight connecting flights.

Tips

• Arrive early. Plan to be at the site at least a day before your scheduled launch to acclimate and attend all briefings without rushing.
• Stay hydrated and eat lightly. A light meal a few hours before launch helps prevent nausea during weightlessness. Avoid alcohol the day before.
• Use the restroom before boarding. The capsule has no bathroom. The flight lasts only about 11 minutes, but you’ll be in the capsule for up to an hour before launch.
• Listen carefully to the crew. They’ll give instructions on when to unbuckle and when to return to your seat. Follow them precisely.
• Bring a small camera. While the capsule has windows, you’ll want your own photos. A GoPro or smartphone with a strap is ideal—just make sure it’s secured during launch and landing.

Troubleshooting

If something goes wrong on launch day, here’s what to expect:

• Weather delay: If winds or clouds are outside limits, the launch is postponed. Blue Origin will reschedule, typically within a few days. Keep your travel plans flexible.
• Technical abort: The rocket’s computers can abort the launch automatically if any parameter is off. This is a safety feature. The capsule will separate and land safely via parachutes. You’ll be rescheduled for another flight.
• Medical issue on the day: If you feel unwell, inform the crew. They may delay your flight or have you sit out. Do not fly if you have a cold, sinus infection, or chest congestion—pressure changes can cause pain.
• Motion sickness: Some passengers feel nauseous in zero gravity. Blue Origin provides motion sickness bags in the capsule. If you’re prone, ask your doctor about a scopolamine patch or other medication before the flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire flight?

From liftoff to landing, the flight lasts about 11 minutes. The entire experience—from boarding to exiting—takes roughly 2–3 hours.

How high does the capsule go?

The New Shepard capsule reaches an apogee of about 100 kilometers (62 miles), which is the Kármán line—the internationally recognized boundary of space.

How many passengers are on each flight?

The crew capsule carries six passengers. There is no pilot; the capsule is fully automated and controlled from the ground.

Do I need to be physically fit?

You need to be able to climb the tower stairs (about 100 steps) and withstand up to 5 g of force during re-entry. Most people in good health can participate. Blue Origin’s medical screening will determine eligibility.

Can I bring anything into space?

You can bring small personal items, like a photo or a small keepsake, but they must be secured. The capsule has limited space, and loose items can become projectiles during launch.

What happens if the flight is cancelled?

If a flight is scrubbed, Blue Origin will reschedule you for a future mission. You won’t lose your payment, but you may need to adjust your travel plans. Check their policy for specific terms.

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