A British company has launched a brand new service that sends your ashes in to space. You simply have your ashes loaded in to a ballon and sent 25 miles high.
Ascension Flights, set up by two graduates from the University of Sheffield, UK, have spent the last few years successfully sending hundreds of items into space. Now, after successfully releasing non-human ash into space thanks to their specifically designed Ascension 1 craft, they are set to launch the service to the public in November.
So what actually happens?
The Ascension 1 craft – a payload box fitted with a camera, tracking device, and release mechanism attached to a balloon filled with gas hydrogen – launches from a site in Yorkshire. Once the craft reaches the edge of space, around 25 kilometers (15 miles) or higher, the computer tracking its flight path releases the mechanism, allowing the ashes to gently float away into space.
“When the ashes are released, the winds of the stratosphere spread the particles out across the planet, ending up all over the place,” Mostly they are dispersed, with evidence showing they can escape Earth’s gravitational pull and even head for the stars.
Any residual moisture in the canister freezes instantly, revealing a plume of glitter. Some of the ashes fall through the atmosphere to Earth, with any precipitation on them turning into raindrops and snowflakes.
How much does it cost?
The Memorial Launch is priced at £2,195
See your loved one’s final journey to be scattered in space in a beautiful, personalised video memorial.
Find out MorePersonal Launch packages start from £3,095
Want to launch your loved one’s ashes to space from a site of personal significance? They will work with you to create the perfect send-off.
Find out MoreVoyager Launch and return package £345
Launch a ceremonial portion of your loved one’s ashes into space and back again.
Find out MoreWe think this is a pretty cool idea and something extra special for someone who is a space fan and would like to have themselves scattered in a very unique way. Would you like to be scattered in space or are you more of a traditional type? Let us know in the comments.
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February 1, 2020
Wow! This is interesting. I don’t think I would want to be scattered in space lol I’ll stick to the traditional cremation.
February 1, 2020
Yeah it is a bit of an interesting one. I like the idea of it but not sure I would ultimately do it. I would take a trip in to space though.
CM
February 3, 2020
Very interesting concept. The prices are actually more affordable than I imagined they would be but then again I guess that ash isn’t that heavy.
February 10, 2020
This might be the only way I get to space! So intetesting that this is a thing. I think I would rather be planted with an apple tree!
February 10, 2020
I do like the idea of being planted under a tree. A nice Oak or something that will last a few 100 years.