Space tourism ventures may soon offer balloon-based excursions, as Iwatani Giken, a Japanese start-up, has revealed its "Open Universe Project" aimed at democratizing space access. The company showcased the T-10 Earther cabin on February 21, 2023, with plans to launch the service for the general public in the latter half of 2023. Currently, they are seeking five experienced passengers to join the project.
Established in 2016, Iwatani Giken has been focusing on balloon-based space exploration through its "Balloon Space Project" and "Balloon Space Life Project." In 2020, the firm began designing and developing high-altitude balloons. . .