Virgin Galactic's WhiteKnightTwo and SpaceShipTwo together form the world's first commercial human space launch system: both are built and flying.
SpaceShipTwo has been created specifically to open the experience of space flight to unprecedented numbers of private individuals at increasingly affordable ticket prices and in a safe and enjoyable environment. It has a large cabin and many big windows allowing its six passengers to explore the wonder of out-of-seat zero gravity while absorbing incredible views of the blue planet from the blackness of space.
Based on the history making SpaceShipOne, Virgin Galactic's system utilises an air launch platform, namely the world's largest all composite, dual fuselage aviation vehicle, WhiteKnightTwo. With a unique heavy payload, high altitude capability, this capable, four engined mothership, hauls the spaceship to the edges of the atmosphere where it is released for an efficient and safe but thrilling rocket-powered, Mach 3.5 climb to space. SpaceShipTwo has a unique re-entry system which sees the tail-booms rotate in space to provide stability and drag during the carefree and heat-free return to the Earth's atmosphere. A glide from high altitude to an un-powered runway landing completes the astronaut experience and the first step on a journey which will connect everyone to space like never before.
Scale 1:144
Skill level 3 advanced
length 166mm
number of parts 114
wingspan 297mm
