Virgin Galactic completes first commercial space flight(1/3)

Photo shows the rocket of the Virgin's space plane igniting during a research flight that included Italian specialists who conducted a number of microgravity experiments in New Mexico, June 29, 2023. (Photo/VCG)

With the research flight complete, Virgin Galactic plans to begin commercial flights with paying ticket holders in August.

Photo shows the rocket-powered space plane feathering its wings as it prepares to glide back down to Spaceport America in southern New Mexico, June 29, 2023. (Photo/VCG)

Photo shows the Virgin Galactic's rocket-powered space plane during a research flight before gliding back down to Spaceport America in southern New Mexico, June 29, 2023. (Photo/VCG)