Would Use Spacecraft Based On Gemini Capsule From The 1960s

A 'grassroots' company is looking for investors to help it get a nascent commercial space program off the ground.

The company is called Space Operations Inc (SpaceOps). The company's stated mission is "to launch people into orbit from the U.S as soon as possible."

SpaceOps calls their spacecraft "Eclipse". "Our Eclipse spacecraft is based on the proven Gemini design that NASA flew back in the 1960's" said Craig Russell (pictured in video posted to Kickstarter website), founder of SpaceOps. To get the project rolling the company has launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds to build a simulator that would be used to train astronauts to fly their spacecraft.

After the successful completion of the simulator project, the company says a follow on campaign will focus on building actual Eclipse spacecraft hardware.

"It's been almost 4 years since the U.S. has launched people into orbit. Some space experts say the current "spaceflight gap" could go on for several more years," Russell said. "The fact is nobody knows for sure how long it will last. If you've ever wanted to be personally involved with a manned spaceflight program, this is your chance," said Russell. Let's orbit SOONER than later!"

The Kickstarter campaign has a goal of $13,000 in 28 days to begin to build the simulator. As of this writing, they have yet to receive their first pledge.

(Images from Space Operations Kickstarter page)

FMI: www.spaceoperationsinc.com, www.kickstarter.com/projects/spaceopsinc/eclipse-2-seat-orbital-spacecraft-first-step-simul?ref=category