Space Beyond, a startup founded by a former Blue Origin engineer, is set to offer an affordable option for space burials in 2027. The company’s ‘Ashes to Space’ program aims to send the ashes of 1,000 people to space using CubeSat technology.
Utilizing a partnership with Arrow Science and Technology, Space Beyond has secured a spot on a SpaceX Falcon 9 mission scheduled for October 2027. This initiative marks a more accessible approach to space burials, with prices starting at just $249 – a significant reduction compared to existing providers.
Space Beyond’s cost-effective model is made possible through the rideshare concept, enabling smaller CubeSats to be integrated into larger spacecraft like Falcon 9 at a fraction of the traditional cost. This democratization of space access allows for diverse scientific and commercial opportunities.
While sending ashes to space is not a novel concept, Space Beyond’s emphasis on affordability and innovative technology distinguishes it in the market, making space burials a more attainable option for a broader demographic.
Source: TechCrunch