VIRGIN GALACTIC DELAYS NEW SPACESHIP COMMERCIAL FLIGHTS TO 2027

The spaceflight company's latest spacecraft will not carry paying customers to space this year as originally planned. The delay extends development timelines as Virgin Galactic works to prepare the Delta class for operations. The company is simultaneously running a public campaign to name the new vehicle, offering options including VSS Horizon, Explorer, Ascend, and Apeiron. The naming initiative invites customer input on branding for the spacecraft. Virgin Galactic has faced multiple delays in its commercial spaceflight operations. The 2027 target represents a significant extension from earlier timelines. The company continues developing its fleet to offer suborbital space tourism experiences for wealthy passengers. Details on the reasons for the postponement were not disclosed in the announcement. The company aims to ensure the Delta class vehicle meets safety and operational requirements before beginning commercial service.