Virgin Galactic SpaceShipTwo's first flight a success

Congratulations to Virgin Galactic on a successful first powered flight of SpaceShipTwo!  This flight tested the key components of the craft, and propelled it to Mach 1.2 and an altitude of 56,000 ft. (17,000 meters).  I won't go into the details as they are covered very well in articles all over the internet, such as this one.

CREDIT: MarsScientific.com and Clay Center Observatory 

Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo to attempt Supersonic Flight on Monday

Last year the FAA cleared Virgin Galactic to begin SpaceShipTwo tests.  This Monday, the first of those tests is planned, with the hope of taking the craft supersonic.  According to founder, Richard Branson, the test will attempt to break the sound barrier, and then "build up" through the remainder of the year leading to a sub-orbital "space" flight around year end.  The first "official flight" is scheduled for the first quarter of 2014, and Mr. Branson plans to be aboard, along with his family.

It will be a big milestone for space tourism.