Time to Space Walk During Space Travels

Author: Sudarsan Chakraborty

Decades ago, space-traveling was only reserved for the top scientists and astronauts in government exploration agencies. Things are now changing pretty fast.

When Dennis Tito was allowed to join astronauts and took eight days in the International Space Station, the barrier that only astronauts could travel to the moon was shattered. Space tourism was born.

Now, space tourism is a common phrase with top companies hitting the headlines. Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin are leading the pack with their specialized space vehicles. Therefore, considerations for traveling to space for leisure are no longer if, but when one wants to go there. Of course, you need to be ready to pay the cost and be medically fit.

Some of the most sought-after experiences are zero gravity, weightlessness, and spacewalking. However, it is spacewalking that most people have been asking about. So, let's take a closer look.

What is Space Walking?

As the name suggests, this is walking in outer space. The expectation of most people is that they are able to get out of the space vehicles and walk around. So, how is the experience?

Alexei Leonov was the first person to spacewalk, which he did for about 10 minutes. He indicates that the experience is enthralling. Later astronauts have spacewalked for longer periods. The images and unique experience of walking while floating in open space and stepping on "nothing" are fueling further speculation and demand for spacewalking activities.

Space Walking: Is It Safe?

We must indicate that spacewalking is a risky undertaking. This is because space vehicles are designed to offer people protection from the harsh environment in outer space. Therefore, stepping out could expose you to radiation and extreme temperatures. This could easily result in serious medical issues or accidents.

Space Travel Firms that Offer Spacewalking

The growing demand for spacewalking from tourists who are booking seats for space travel with different companies has jolted them into considering more options. However, most of them are not yet ready to allow their clients to take such risks.

If they were to allow the activity right away, the cost would be far too high. For example, every interested person would require pressurized jackets, tanks of oxygen, and a lot of human support when walking in space. With this reality, the chances are that it might take longer before space tourists can be allowed to disembark from their space vehicles to spacewalk.

Do All Companies Offer Space Walking?

Not all of them. The only space vehicles that allow spacewalking are those carrying astronauts. This is because they are mainly funded by government agencies and do not have limitations when it comes to preparing advanced equipment for scientists. However, other companies offering space traveling are not yet ready to offer this activity.

Just like space traveling became a reality; it is only a matter of time before activities such as spacewalking become the norm. As Andrey Bokarev explains, most space companies are sparing no effort to ensure that their clients get the best experience and value for money. Therefore, their research, development, and commitment to further open this new area can only yield more, including spacewalking.