Sir Richard Branson's space tourism company Virgin Galactic says it will launch its first commercial flight before the end of this month. The firm is targeting a launch window for the flight, which is called Galactic 01, from 27 June to 30 June. After the announcement to investors, Virgin Galactic shares jumped more than 40% in extended New York trading. Virgin Galactic said the first flight will be a scientific research mission with its second commercial spaceflight will follow in early August, and it expects to operate monthly spaceflights from then on. It marks a key milestone for the 19-year-old Virgin Galactic, which has had to overcome a series of accidents and technical challenges. Virgin Galactic has sold more than 800 tickets to people who want to ride over 80km (260,000ft) above Earth. The flights are designed to give passengers views from space at the top of its climb and allow them a few minutes to experience weightlessness. They cost $450,000 (£352,170) per person.
