We’re getting near a point in space exploration where it may be relatively common for civilians- not just astronauts– to reach outer space. This concept is particularly notable since it was just April of 1961 when the first person ever flew into space, followed closely by Alan Shepard, the first American to fly to space in May, 1961.
These events were a mere 62 years ago, a blink of an eye in the context of time.
It’s interesting to note what exactly constitutes outer space. Put another way, where is the boundary between Earth and space? While there is some debate, the generally recognized border is the Kármán line, an area 62 miles above the Earth. The Kármán line is the point where traditional aircraft cannot utilize the lift generated by the Earth’s atmosphere and can therefore no longer fly.
The first unpiloted flights with all civilian crews were launched in July and September of 2021 (flights by Blue Origin and SpaceX, respectively), with William Shatner (always remembered by Star Trek fans as the original Captain Kirk), who at 90 became the oldest person to fly into space in October of 2021.
Returning to the original point in this post, civilian travel to outer space will become more commonplace, and it will happen through the efforts of people like Dylan Taylor, who is profiled in this fine Chicago Booth Review piece. Dylan became the 606th person to travel into space on December 11, 2021, and is working to make it possible for hundreds more to have the same experience.
Enjoy the article and let me know if you have ever dreamed of going into space- click here to connect with me!
~ Brian Kasal- The Leadership Matrix
Click here- Chicago Booth Review: Rocket Man
P.S.- Did you see my last Leadership Matrix post? Drilling for Hydrogen May be Green Energy Game Changer
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