Imagine embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime journey where you can witness the breathtaking curvature of the Earth from the edge of space. This extraordinary experience is now within reach, thanks to Zephalto, a French company that has unveiled its latest offering, the Céleste. As a luxury space capsule, the Céleste aims to provide an intimate, environmentally conscious, and technologically advanced space travel experience. Let’s delve into the fascinating details of this remarkable venture.
A Visionary Creation
Zephalto, established in 2016, is the brainchild of aeronautical engineer Vincent Farret d’Astiès. He dreamed of creating a space travel experience that harmoniously combined luxury, environmental consciousness, and technological advancements. With the invaluable support of architect and interior designer Joseph Dirand, renowned for his work on establishments like Loulou, Shun, and Le Jardinier, Zephalto is now ready to unveil the realization of this vision—Céleste, the Luxury Space Capsule.
Unparalleled Features and Design
The Céleste luxury space capsule offers an exclusive journey like no other. Controlled by two skilled pilots, it accommodates up to six guests per flight. Each journey lasts approximately six hours, comprising 90 minutes to ascend to cruising altitude, followed by three awe-inspiring hours in space, and concluding with a 90-minute descent back to Earth.
Ascending to an altitude of 25km, which is approximately 15km higher than commercial airplanes, the Céleste allows guests to witness the mesmerizing curvature of our planet—an awe-inspiring perspective that astronauts have described as truly transformative. The main highlight of the capsule is its exceptionally large, eye-shaped windows, the largest among existing space capsules. These windows provide guests with unparalleled views of the Earth, sun, and stars. Moreover, the Céleste gently rotates, ensuring that every passenger can enjoy stunning vistas, regardless of their seating location.
Luxurious and Comfortable Interiors
Step inside the Céleste, and you will be greeted by cozy yet sophisticated interiors designed to provide the utmost comfort and relaxation throughout the journey. The earthy color scheme dominated by creams and whites, coupled with carpets, upholstered seats, and sofas, creates a warm and inviting ambiance. Depending on the size of the group, the main cabin can be divided into smaller ‘cocoons,’ offering added privacy. Alternatively, the space can be opened up, providing communal areas for families and larger groups.
Indulge in Tailored Experiences
The Céleste offers a range of tailored experiences to enhance the journey. Among the most exciting offerings is a rumored Michelin-starred dining experience curated by a group of celebrated French chefs. This extraordinary culinary adventure focuses on molecular and experimental dishes that pay homage to traditional French flavors while incorporating futuristic cooking techniques. Guests will have the opportunity to savor an exceptional gastronomic delight amidst the wonders of space.
Stay Connected with the World
In this era of social media, capturing and sharing unforgettable moments is a cherished part of any travel experience. On board the Céleste, guests can stay connected with high-speed Wi-Fi, allowing them to share details, photos, and videos from their voyage in real-time. This seamless connectivity enables friends, family, and followers to be part of the journey, virtually experiencing the wonders of space alongside the guests.
A Commitment to Eco-Friendly Travel
While the Céleste is undoubtedly a marvel of design and innovation, it is Zephalto’s unwavering commitment to sustainability that sets it apart. The company strives to ensure that each journey aboard the luxury space capsule is as eco-friendly as possible. According to the team, a voyage on the Céleste is estimated to consume only approximately 60 pounds of CO2. Zephalto’s dedication to minimizing its carbon footprint underscores its responsibility towards the environment.
Launch and Ticketing Information
After seven years of meticulous research, development, and safety tests, the Céleste is scheduled to launch in 2024. As a testament to its exclusivity, a limited number of presale tickets are currently available for purchase. However, it is important to note that securing a place on this extraordinary journey comes at a considerable price. The tickets are priced close to US$130,000 per person (4.6 million baht), reflecting the luxury, uniqueness, and unparalleled experience offered by the Céleste.
