Blue Origin Space Tourism Criticized, Jeff Bezos Speaks Out

 

Jeff Bezos ’flight into space was marred by criticism from many quarters. Many argue that Bezos as the richest man in the world should help solve problems on Earth first, then manage space tourism.

In an interview with CNN before his flight, Bezos was asked about critics who said that space travel is only for the rich and he should spend his money and energy to solve problems on Earth. Bezos says the criticism makes sense.

"They're mostly right. We have to do both," Bezos said, as quoted by the New York Post on Wednesday (21/7/2021).

Bezos acknowledges there are many problems on Earth that need to be addressed immediately, but he says that developing technology for the future is just as important.

Amazon founders say Blue Origin’s long -term goal is to be like a commercial airline. With that, Blue Origin can help future generations to do great things in space.

“If we can do that, we’re going to build an entrance into outer space for the next generation to do amazing things there, and those amazing things will solve problems on Earth,” Bezos said.

Bezos quoted Oliver Daemen, one of the passengers who flew with him. The 18 -year -old Daemen was the first passenger to pay for the flight, having been bought by his father, who is the boss of an investment management company.

Bezos said Daemen, who is the youngest person to ever fly into space, could be one of the young people who can take advantage of space tourism offered by many companies.

"Maybe he'll set up a space company that uses the infrastructure built by the current generation," the 57 -year -old said.

Space tourism as offered by Blue Origin does invite both pros and cons. Some supported it because it was considered to be able to advance space exploration, but some also criticized it because it was considered to be enjoyed only by the rich.

One of the harshest critics is U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders. This Democratic senator some time ago criticized Bezos and Blue Origin for asking for USD 10 billion from Congress, even though Bezos is the richest man in the world.