In recent years, space tourism has become a captivating and realistic option for couples who want to travel beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. But a new business is taking things a step further, allowing people to get married in space.
The company, called Space Perspective, is currently accepting bookings for couples who want to say their vows in orbit. Unlike some other space tourism companies, it doesn’t use rockets to send passengers into space — instead, it uses something called a Neptune capsule that can fit eight people and features big windows for the ultimate view of planet Earth from over 100,000 feet up.
According to co-founder Jane Poynter, the business already has several people interested in getting hitched in space. However, it’s important to note that while a Neptune voyage is an amazing experience, it’s not exactly cheap. Prices start at $125,000 for a seat.
Poynter says the company has plans to open a second capsule in 2024 that will be designed specifically for weddings. She also revealed that the first couple to get married in space will receive a discount on their Neptune ticket, which is currently priced at $125,000.
As for what couples can expect to see on the Neptune, Poynter says that the vessel will be a comfortable and quiet environment that’s suitable for both casual and formal occasions. The cabin will have a large table with seating for guests, and there’ll be plenty of room for a photographer to take some stunning photos of the newlyweds. Guests can also relax with their drinks on the custom-designed bar, which has a window that opens to reveal the planet below.
The first couple to get married in space was Ekaterina Dmitriev and her husband, Russian cosmonaut Yuri Malenchenko. They got married in 2003 via a video linkup that connected the International Space Station with Houston, Texas. The bride walked down the aisle to David Bowie’s “Absolute Beginners.” After the ceremony, she blew a kiss to her new husband and he blew one back to her.
While the first space wedding was an amazing experience, it wasn’t technically legal. Because of the contract that cosmonauts sign before their flights, they’re not allowed to marry while in orbit. However, the pair decided to celebrate their marriage anyway.
As for those who aren’t quite ready to book their spot in space, they can still go on a space-themed honeymoon. A Japanese company is now offering to blast commemorative plaques into space so that couples can remember their nuptials. The price of the service is a little steep, however, at about $125,000 per seat.