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Instead of using traditional rockets, Virgin Galactic opted for a space plane model that would promise both safety and comfort for its passengers. The company's space flight system is composed of two key vehicles: Spaceship Two and White Knight Two. The latter functions as a carrier jet, bringing the space plane up to altitude before it detaches to ascend into space.
The innovation doesn’t stop there; Spaceship Two features a hybrid rocket engine and a unique aerodynamic design that allows it to transition seamlessly from space back into Earth's atmosphere, altering its shape during descent through a process referred to as The Feathered Position. This design serves to stabilize the flight during free fall, ensuring a controlled and safe return.