Say Halo: Landmark Space Balloon To Begin Launches From Saudi Arabia In 2025

Spain's Halo Space announced that Saudi Arabia will be a key launch site for its commercial near-space balloon project, aligning with the Kingdom's ambitious tourism goals. The Madrid-based company revealed plans for an unmanned test flight in late from Al-Aflaj oasis, 330km south of Riyadh.

The Aurora capsule will ascend 30km above the Earth's surface during this sixth test flight, coordinated with Saudi Arabia's Communication, Space and Technology Commission. Previous test flights were conducted in Spain. If successful, the first manned test flight is scheduled for 2025, with commercial flights starting in 2026.

Halo Space aims to conduct 400 commercial trips annually by 2029, carrying 3,000 passengers each year. The six-hour journey will cost $100,000 per person. CEO Carlos Mira stated that Saudi Arabia would become a permanent base for the company, although the exact location is yet to be finalised.

"Saudi Arabia will host one of our four global launch bases," Mira said. He added that customers could spend up to a week in the country before each flight while waiting for optimal weather conditions.

Saudi Arabia has set a goal for tourism to contribute 10% of its GDP by 2030. Most projects target affluent tourists, including Red Sea Global resorts, Magna resorts inside NEOM city, and ancient ruins in AlUla.

The Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) has launched the Neo Space Group (NSG), a company fully owned by PIF, to lead the country's satellite and space industry. This initiative supports PIF's strategy to develop promising sectors within Saudi Arabia.

Neo Space Group aims to position itself as a key player in the aerospace sector. By fostering innovation and growth, NSG intends to contribute significantly to Saudi Arabia's economic diversification. The establishment of NSG is part of broader efforts to enhance the nation's technological capabilities.

PIF's strategy includes investing in sectors with high growth potential. The creation of NSG aligns with this approach, aiming to unlock new opportunities in the satellite and space industries. This move is expected to attract investments and partnerships from global aerospace companies.

The development of Neo Space Group is seen as a crucial step towards achieving Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals. By focusing on advanced technologies, NSG will help diversify the economy away from oil dependency. This aligns with the broader national objective of creating a sustainable and knowledge-based economy.

The Saudi Space Agency also plans to launch two nanosatellites annually. Additionally, Saudi Arabia will play a role in manufacturing spacecraft for Halo Space. This initiative was developed as an incubator project by Arthur D. Little's Middle East arm.

"Halo Space's decision to establish its flagship operational base and final assembly site in Saudi Arabia underscores the kingdom's ideal conditions for space exploration activities," a statement said.