Virgin Galactic is inviting the public to vote on names for its new Delta class spaceship. Options include Horizon, Explorer, Ascend, and Apeiron, with voting open until August 27.
This initiative allows the public to participate in spaceflight history and highlights Virgin Galactic's ongoing efforts to expand access to space.
Virgin Galactic is engaging the public in the naming process for its upcoming Delta class spaceship, inviting individuals aged 13 and older to cast their votes. The available options for the new spacecraft are Horizon, Explorer, Ascend, and Apeiron, with the voting period concluding on August 27.
The company has a history of naming its spacecraft, with the first SpaceShipTwo christened Enterprise in 2009. This name was chosen to continue a tradition associated with naval and space exploration vessels and to acknowledge the role of private enterprise in space development. Tragically, the VSS Enterprise was lost on October 31, 2014, during a test flight, resulting in the death of co-pilot Michael Alsbury and severe injuries to pilot Peter Siebold.
Following the Enterprise incident, Virgin Galactic's second SpaceShipTwo was named Unity. This name was selected in response to messages of support received by the company, including one from astrophysicist Stephen Hawking, who envisioned space exploration as a unifier for humanity. Hawking's message about creating "new unity" was later incorporated into the ship's unveiling.
In March 2021, Virgin Galactic introduced VSS Imagine, its first SpaceShip III, noted for its modular design and distinctive livery. VSS Inspire was also announced as the subsequent SpaceShip III model, but its development was canceled in 2024 in favor of the new Delta-class design.