VSS Unity flying above New Mexico

Virgin Galactic completed its third spaceflight and the first-ever spaceflight from Spaceport America, New Mexico on Saturday (22 May). The milestone flight sees New Mexico become the third US state to launch humans into space.

VSS Unity achieved a speed of Mach 3 after being released from the mothership, VMS Eve, and reached space, at an altitude of 55.45 miles before gliding smoothly to a runway landing at Spaceport America.

On VSS Unity’s flight deck were CJ Sturckow and Dave Mackay. CJ, who flew as pilot-in-command, becomes the first person ever to have flown to space from three different states.

Michael Colglazier, Virgin Galactic CEO, said: “This flight showcased the inherent elegance and safety of our spaceflight system, while marking a major step forward for both Virgin Galactic and human spaceflight in New Mexico.

“Space travel is a bold and adventurous endeavour, and I am incredibly proud of our talented team for making the dream of private space travel a reality. We will immediately begin processing the data gained from this successful test flight, and we look forward to sharing news on our next planned milestone.”

Virgin Galactic fulfilled a number of test objectives during the flight, including: carrying revenue-generating scientific research experiments as part of NASA’s Flight Opportunities Program; collecting data to be used for the final two verification reports that are required as part of the current FAA commercial reusable spacecraft operator’s licensed; and tested the spaceship’s upgraded horizontal stabilisers and flight controls and validated EMI reductions.

Following the flight, and in line with normal procedures, Virgin Galactic will conduct a review of all test data gathered and thoroughly inspect the spaceship and mothership. Once the team confirms the results, the company plans to proceed to the next flight test milestone.

Sir Richard Branson said: “Fifteen years ago, New Mexico embarked on a journey to create the world’s first commercial spaceport. We have now launched the first human spaceflight from that very same place, marking an important milestone for both Virgin Galactic and New Mexico.”

New Mexico Governor Lujan Grisham said: “After so many years and so much hard work, New Mexico has finally reached the stars. Our state’s scientific legacy has been honored by this important achievement, one that took guts and faith and an unwavering belief in what New Mexico can achieve — and indeed is destined to achieve. I can’t wait to see what comes next.

“We are at the cutting edge, the forefront of innovation, and I plan to do everything in my power to keep us there, taking full advantage of our robust economic and scientific potential.”