"From Aquanauts to Astronauts and Back Again"
by Christopher J. Faranetta

Although the surfaces of Earth's oceans are easier and far cheaper to reach when compared to the energy required to enter the boundaries of space. The oceans especially the deep ocean, are a far more hostile environment for humans to live and work.

At the dawn of the space travel scientists and engineers drew on the technology and methodology of aquanautics to help them create manned space technology. Today the space industry could again benefit from the technology and experience of aquanautics to develop space tourism.

Mr. Faranetta will describe the space tourism industry today, it's directions and Space Adventures' programs. This overview of space tourism will be followed by a question and answer discussion of the sport diving industry, and the role it could play in the development of space tourism.

Biography

Mr. Christopher J. Faranetta
Special Projects Developer, Space Adventures

Mr. Faranetta helped forge early joint U.S./Russian space efforts while serving as International Liaison to the Space Studies Institute in Princeton N.J.

In order to support and foster fledgling U.S./Russian space ventures prior to the establishment of the Russian Aviation and Space Agency, Mr. Faranetta founded and co-managed the American office for Rocket Space Corporation Energia, the prime contractor for the Russian segment of the International Space Station. Following his position with Energia, Mr. Faranetta worked with emerging companies to formulate and identify new markets for advanced space technologies. His love for the development of new and advanced commercial/government space markets drew him to Space Adventures where he now serves as the Special Projects Developer.

Space Adventures, Ltd., the world's leading space tourism company, offers a wide range of space experiences, from zero-gravity and Edge of Space flights, cosmonaut training and space flight qualification programs, to actual flights into space. Headquartered in Arlington, VA Space Adventures is the only company to successfully launch private individuals to the International Space Station.