A New Horizon Awaits
Zephalto is pioneering a new era of sustainable space tourism, offering exclusive, low-carbon journeys to the stratosphere aboard their state-of-the-art capsule, Céleste. By 2025, adventurers will have the opportunity to ascend 25 kilometers above Earth, experiencing the planet's curvature and the profound darkness of space in unparalleled comfort and style
The Vision Behind Zephalto
Founded by aerospace engineer Vincent Farret d’Astiès in 2016, Zephalto aims to make the dream of space exploration accessible while prioritizing environmental responsibility. Collaborating closely with the French space agency (CNES) and the Occitanie region, the company has developed a unique approach to space travel that minimizes carbon emissions and maximizes passenger experience.
The Céleste Capsule: A Masterpiece of Design and Engineering
At the heart of Zephalto’s offering is the Céleste capsule, a pressurized vessel designed by renowned architect Joseph Dirand. The interior reflects French refinement, featuring three spacious cabins that provide panoramic views of Earth through the largest wide-angle windows ever installed in a spacecraft. Each window offers a 1,400 km vista, allowing passengers to see the world from a breathtaking new perspective.
Safety and comfort are paramount in Céleste’s design. The capsule is certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and incorporates 11 patented technologies, ensuring it meets the highest standards of civil aviation. With a spacious interior of 20 square meters, passengers can relax in private cocoons, savoring the journey in an environment that epitomizes luxury and tranquility.
The Journey: A Six-Hour Odyssey to the Edge of Space
Each Zephalto voyage is meticulously crafted to provide an unforgettable experience:
Boarding: Passengers embark on their journey from one of Zephalto’s exclusive spaceports, designed to offer a seamless and luxurious pre-flight experience.
Ascent: Over the course of 90 minutes, the hydrogen-filled stratospheric balloon gently lifts the Céleste capsule at a serene pace of four meters per second. As the capsule ascends, travelers can marvel at the changing panorama, witnessing the transition from the Earth’s surface to the vast expanse of the stratosphere.
Climax: Upon reaching an altitude of 25 kilometers, the capsule hovers in the stratosphere for three hours. Here, passengers experience the “Overview Effect,” a cognitive shift reported by astronauts who have seen Earth from space, fostering a profound sense of connection and appreciation for the planet.
Descent: The journey concludes with a 90-minute descent, allowing travelers to continue absorbing the stunning views as they gently return to Earth.
Back on Earth: After landing, passengers are invited to share their experiences and become part of Zephalto’s exclusive community of space travelers.
Environmental Commitment: A Sustainable Approach to Space Tourism
Zephalto is deeply committed to minimizing the environmental impact of its operations. Each flight produces approximately 26.6 kilograms of CO₂ per passenger, equivalent to a car journey from Paris to Lille (224 km). This low-carbon footprint is achieved through the use of a hydrogen-filled balloon and efficient flight operations.
Moreover, Zephalto’s missions contribute to scientific research by providing unique opportunities to collect essential data on the atmosphere, climate change, and Earth observation. By facilitating regular measurements in the stratosphere, the company plays a significant role in advancing our understanding of environmental science.
A Legacy of Innovation: Zephalto’s Milestones
Since its inception, Zephalto has achieved several key milestones:
2016: Company founded by Vincent Farret d’Astiès.
2017: Assembly of a dedicated team of experts.
2018: First crewed flight in a balloon at low altitude.
2019: Design and development of a reusable balloon envelope.
2020: First crewed flight utilizing the reusable envelope.
2022: Completion of capsule design and engineering, along with multiple flight tests.
These accomplishments underscore Zephalto’s dedication to innovation, safety, and environmental stewardship in the realm of space tourism.
Join the Pioneers of Stratospheric Travel
Zephalto invites you to become a pioneer of stratospheric exploration. With flights commencing in 2025, now is the time to secure your place in history and experience the Earth from a perspective few have ever seen. Embrace the opportunity to witness the planet’s beauty, reflect on its fragility, and return with a renewed sense of connection to our shared home.
For more information Share your details or connect with us at info@namastetourism.com

