Chapter 1: The Resurgence of Hypersonic Travel

After nearly two decades since the Concorde’s retirement, interest in hypersonic air travel is resurging with tangible developments.

This new initiative comes from Venus Aerospace, a startup located in Houston, Texas, founded in 2020. Their latest aircraft, dubbed “Stargazer,” is designed to achieve speeds of Mach 9, facilitating intercontinental journeys in just one hour by cruising at an altitude of approximately 52 kilometers (170,000 feet). What’s more, it will be able to take off and land at conventional airports.

Anticipated Timeline: The company is set to commence test flights using a scaled-down drone next year.

Target Audience: The aircraft is aimed at accommodating 12 passengers, primarily focusing on business professionals with international ties. According to Venus Aerospace's website, the rationale is simple: “There’s always a reason to meet in person.” With this aircraft, individuals could attend meetings across the globe and return home in time for dinner.

Financial Aspects: While the exact cost remains undisclosed, it’s noteworthy that Venus Aerospace has already garnered over $50 million in funding this year, which is comparable to the price of a two-week trip to the International Space Station.

Is it Worth It?

Included in the funding are contributions from the U.S. government. The company has also collaborated with NASA for wind tests. Following Russia's use of hypersonic missiles in Ukraine, U.S. officials have revived discussions on hypersonic propulsion technology.

Moreover, the U.S. military is exploring the possibility of utilizing SpaceX rockets to transport troops and equipment anywhere on Earth within an hour.

However, setting aside military applications, what does this mean for the average traveler?

Is it merely an overpriced ticket for businesspeople who still value face-to-face interactions in a digital age? Or is this the dawn of a new era in air travel?

When asked if he would consider purchasing a ticket to space, former astronaut Ulrich Walter replied that it’s currently too costly. However, he believes prices will eventually decrease, making it accessible. Similarly, if these ambitious plans come to fruition, ticket prices are likely to drop as well.

As the technology evolves, more passengers may be accommodated per flight (the Concorde could carry up to 128 passengers), leading to increased interest and demand. The lines between Earth and space, as well as private and public travel, seem to be blurring.

What are your thoughts on this development?

In the mood for more stimulating discussions?

Check out this insightful piece by fellow Medium writer Eric Weiner:

Five Questions to Consider Regarding Any New Technology

“Because we can” is not a sufficient justification for pursuing new technology, nor is “because it’s new.”

Or:

Join a community of passionate readers and writers on Medium. Access all articles for just $5 a month and support creators like me and many others.

Chapter 2: Exploring the Future of Air Travel

This video titled "Could This Be The Next Air Force One?" dives into the ambitious plans for the hypersonic aircraft by Hermeus, showcasing the potential revolution in air travel.

In this video, "Top Gun DARKSTAR in Real Life!" we explore the real-life inspirations and developments behind hypersonic technology, igniting excitement for the future of aviation.