Virgin Galactic successfully completed its second spaceflight of the year, carrying four tourists to the edge of space and back aboard its spaceplane. The achievement is a testament to the company's ongoing commitment to space exploration.

Virgin Galactic 07 Mission

The Galactic 07 mission transported passengers from Turkey, the United States, and Italy to an altitude of approximately 55 miles (88.51 km) during a flight that lasted just over an hour.

Following that, it deployed a spaceplane from beneath its wings, which swiftly ascended to the outer limits of the atmosphere, granting passengers a brief period of weightlessness and a breathtaking view of the Earth's curvature.

The aircraft touched down on the runway at 9.41am, reaching a speed of Mach 2.96, nearly three times the speed of sound, Reuters reported.

One of the individuals involved was Mr. Tuva Atasever, an astronaut from the Turkish space agency. His seat was contracted through another space company, Axiom. The names of the other three individuals were only revealed after landing.

While on the flight, Atasever used specialized headgear equipped with sensors to monitor brain activity as well as collect physiological data. 

He also carried a dosimeter along with two insulin pens to assess the accuracy of administering insulin doses in microgravity. Virgin provided this information in a statement.

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Virgin Galactic Aims Profit Amidst Financial Losses

The company's future hangs in the balance as it strives to finally become profitable. Virgin has been experiencing significant financial losses, with over US$100 million (S$134 million) lost in each of the past two quarters. As of March, the company's reserves stood at US$867 million.

In late 2023, the company unfortunately had to let go of 185 individuals, which accounted for 18% of its workforce. 

The company's shares have experienced a significant decline, currently trading at 85 cents compared to their peak of US$55 in 2021.  This decline coincided with the year when Mr. Branson made headlines by flying himself.

Investors in Virgin Galactic may need to brace themselves for a period of time where the company generates minimal revenue, StraitsTimes reported. 

The Motley Fool cautioned investors about the potential for a delay in the Delta program, which could extend this period to 18 to 30 months.

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