How does a memorial spaceflight work?

Celestis memorial spaceflights are easy to arrange and convenient to fulfill. At the appropriate time, Celestis will mail a flight sample kit to your family or funeral service provider (as you direct). The flight sample kit includes complete instructions and all tools you need to provide a symbolic portion of cremated remains or DNA sample for flight.

Prior to launch, cremated remains or DNA sample are sealed inside a personalized, individual flight capsule and placed inside the Celestis spacecraft containing all of the individual flight capsules scheduled for a particular mission. The spacecraft is transported to the vehicle/satellite manufacturing facility or the launch site operations center and prepared for spaceflight.

Can family and friends witness the launch?

Yes. Once you’ve chosen to prearrange or made a reservation for a Celestis memorial spaceflight service, you’ll receive invitations for you, your family, and friends to attend Celestis launches and related activities. Celestis memorial space launches bring together people from all over the world for a compelling memorial service. The chance to share stories about a loved one on board, to make new friends, and to witness – often for the first time  –  the power and grandeur of a launch into space is an experience you will cherish for years.

Celestis organizes a multi-day event prior to every launch. Included are mixers and pre-launch briefings, tours, and a memorial service in advance of launch day. The launch and surrounding activities are webcast for those unable to attend the events.

On launch day families gather at the liftoff site to share the experience of seeing their loved ones’ dreams of spaceflight realized. With a roar and a fiery streak across the sky, the rocket lifts its precious load higher and higher into the peaceful solitude of space.