An announcement from Ryanair that it intends to start a second space race by offering low fare flights to the moon to compete with Virgin Galactic has been welcomed by a competitor.
”Wonderful news,” said the man, a very senior and much respected airline person. ”I”ve always been known for my generosity. On this occasion I would like to buy Michael O”Leary a seat. I will lay out for his extra luggage, and speedy boarding. He can pay for his mobile phone himself. The thought of O”Leary out in space circling the moon in a low cost space ship, fills me with joy.”
Working in conjunction with NASA, Virgin Galactic is a serious project aimed at offering short space rides for anyone who can afford the trip and pass the medical examination. SpaceShip Two rides will cost $200,000 (”101,350) each for the 2h 30m trip but no date has been set for the initial lift-off.
The Ryanair press release was dated on the morning of 1 April.