On September 12, 2024, American billionaire Jared Isaacman made history by becoming the first tourist to perform a spacewalk on the Polaris Dawn mission. This achievement, while spectacular, highlights a new trend: space tourism. But what does it really consist of? And what are its impacts, particularly on the environment? Let's decipher this fascinating and controversial phenomenon.
What is space tourism?
Space tourism is a form of travel that enables non-professional civilians to go into space, at exorbitant cost. For the wealthy, it offers the chance to see the Earth from space, float in weightlessness and, for some, perform spacewalks like Jared Isaacman. However, these adventures are far from accessible to all. Prices range from 250,000 to several million euros. As a result, this leisure activity is reserved exclusively for the ultra-rich. The latter are, moreover, responsible for the majority of the world's CO2 emissions, making this practice even more controversial.
Read the article: Discover our article on the environmental impact calculated from the climate shadow.
What is the environmental impact of space tourism?
Space tourism is a practice that raises major environmental concerns . Each rocket launch generates massive CO2 emissions, up to 200-300 tonnes of CO2 per flight - around 100 times more than a traditional transatlantic flight. These emissions come on top of those already generated by the ultra-rich, who are responsible for a disproportionate share of global emissions. Indeed, the richest 1% contribute 15% of global CO2 emissions, making space tourism a leisure activity that exacerbates environmental inequality.
In addition to this atmospheric pollution, space tourism adds to the millions of pieces of space debris already in orbit, creating significant risks for satellites and future exploration missions. The 130 million pieces of space junk in orbit pose a growing danger, and each rocket launch intensifies the problem.
Space tourism: a brake on sustainable exploration
Unlike the exploration carried out by scientific agencies such as NASA, space tourism makes only a marginal contribution to sustainable space research and exploration. Although some missions include scientific experiments, they are mainly used to satisfy the desires of the wealthy. These voyages do not advance space knowledge in any convincing way, and increase the environmental risks associated with space.
Against a backdrop of climate crisis, space tourism is perceived as a futile and costly practice that distracts attention from ecological priorities. Far from offering solutions to the challenges facing the planet, it contributes to a form of mass consumption with a very high carbon footprint. It is therefore essential to think about more responsible forms of travel.
What are the best space museums?
For space enthusiasts, several museums offer fascinating experiences without leaving Earth:
- The Cité de l'Espace in Toulouse lets you explore life-size replicas of the International Space Station;
- And the Musée de l'air et de l'espace at Le Bourget offers immersive exhibitions on the history of the conquest of space.
These venues offer an educational and accessible approach to the mysteries of the universe.
Activities to book click here to book your tickets for the Cité de l'espace in Toulouse and learn more about our universe without leaving Earth.
How to travel with less pollution?
If you're captivated by the idea of exploring space, but want to reduce your environmental impact, there are several solutions. Opt for eco-responsible modes of transport, such as slow travel, a way of traveling that takes its time and favors less polluting routes.
Or discover regenerative tourism, an approach that aims to restore and preserve ecosystems during your travels. To go even further, calculate your carbon footprint and opt for destinations that are close to you and respectful of the environment. Take a look at our top 15 sustainable travel labels.
Space tourism inspires wonder, but also raises ethical and environmental questions. If you dream of exploring the stars while limiting your carbon footprint, why not visit the best space museums or consider more sustainable forms of travel? Travel eco-responsibly with our 10 practical tips, and log on to the Festivals section of Petit Futé to discover more ideas for outings, concerts and cultural and unusual festivals.
