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Halo Space Capsule Set To Fly 32 Km Above Saudi Arabia

A June test flight will launch a second life-size prototype as the company reveals plans to begin commercial “Space Tourism” operations by 2026.

Published

11 months ago

March 25, 2024

Nour Nasir

Halo Space

Spanish headquartered Halo Space, a “Stratospheric Commercial Flights Company” has announced plans to launch a sixth test flight from Saudi Arabian airspace in June this year. The news comes after the company received the go ahead from Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST).

This test flight will launch Halo’s prototype capsule 32 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. The craft is followed by a helium balloon that slowly ascends and lands back on Earth during the 4-6 hour journey.

Halo plans to begin commercial tourist flights by 2026 at prices of $164,000 per ticket. The company has ambitious plans to help 10,000 people into space this decade, allowing them to view what is known as the Overview Effect — a blue halo that forms around the curvature of the Earth.

Space tourists will eventually be treated to unrivaled 360º vistas for around 1-2 hours at maximum altitude, with the capsule’s windows being significantly larger than those of a commercial airliner.

“I’ve spoken with several astronauts about the feeling of profound transformation when you view the Overview Effect. Everyone should get the chance to see our home from such a view,” says HALO Space CEO Carlos Mira.

Also Read: Pioneering 3D-Printed Mosque Unveiled In Jeddah

Halo is also working with space authorities from the US, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Spain to establish further launch sites. The exact locations have been chosen based on meteorology, territory, and airspace safety.

“It is magnificent to see our vision of making space flight more accessible come to life,” added Carlos Mira. “To prove our concept and showcase all systems working together will signal to the world that near space tourism with Halo Space is ready for lift-off”.

Related Topics:Halo Space Saudi Arabia Space

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News

Dubai Duty Free And TerraPay Partner For Seamless Digital Wallet Payments

The move will enhance convenience for the 100 million customers traveling through Dubai Airport each year.

Published

22 hours ago

February 4, 2025

Nour Nasir

dubai duty free and terrapay partner for seamless digital wallet payments

Dubai Duty Free (DDF), the world’s largest single airport retailer, has teamed with payment provider TerraPay to simplify transactions for international travelers. The partnership will allow over 100 million customers to pay using their home-country digital wallets, including Airtel Money, M-PESA, and MTN MoMooffering, allowing for seamless and accessible shopping experiences.

With TerraPay’s global network of 3.7 billion mobile wallets and its cross-border payments infrastructure, Dubai Duty Free is expanding its payment options to meet evolving consumer preferences. By integrating digital wallets into its system, DDF provides a convenient alternative to traditional payment methods, making transactions much smoother for travelers.

Digital wallets are rapidly becoming the dominant payment method worldwide: In 2025, they are expected to handle 52% of global eCommerce transactions and 30% of all in-store purchases. In addition, digital wallets are already projected to surpass 35% of all cross-border payments this year, highlighting the growing demand for fast, easy, and secure transactions.

Also Read: Visa Partnership Takes X Closer Toward Musk’s “Everything App” Vision

Ambar Sur, Founder & CEO of TerraPay, stated, “Our partnership with Dubai Duty Free […] reflects our shared vision […] to enhance convenience and accessibility, building an inclusive ecosystem that prioritizes customers. It also aligns with the launch of TerraPay’s Wallet Interoperability Council, which aims to create a more connected global payment landscape”.

Echoing this sentiment, Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, said, “We are reinforcing our commitment to empowering our customers by enabling them to pay with their preferred methods. Dubai Duty Free has always been at the forefront of technological advancements, and with access to TerraPay’s vast network, we’re excited to offer this new payment solution”.