For residents of the Treasure Coast, the sight of a SpaceX Falcon 9 streaking across the night sky has become a familiar and beloved backdrop to life in Florida. Soon, however, those launches may carry a much more personal significance for local families. A startup based just north of Indian River County in Satellite Beach is making headlines with a plan to offer affordable “memorial spaceflights,” allowing families to send the cremated remains of loved ones—and even pets—into orbit.
Space Beyond, founded by aerospace engineer Ryan Mitchell, recently announced that it has secured a spot for its inaugural mission. Scheduled for late 2027, this mission aims to democratize the concept of a “space burial,” offering a final resting place among the stars at a fraction of the cost of current competitors.
A New Way to Memorialize Loved Ones
For those whose final wishes extend beyond a traditional cemetery plot, Space Beyond offers a cosmic alternative. The company allows families to send a symbolic portion of cremated remains into space sealed inside a small satellite, known as a cubesat.
Unlike science fiction depictions of floating forever in the void, these memorials have a dynamic lifecycle. The satellite is designed to orbit Earth for approximately five years. During this time, it will circle the planet multiple times a day. Eventually, the satellite will re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere, vaporizing upon descent and creating the visual effect of a “shooting star.”
“Space represents exploration, continuity, perspective, and being part of something larger than ourselves. Sending ashes to space transforms something static into something moving, purposeful, and enduring.” — Space Beyond
Details on the 2027 Mission
The startup has officially booked passage on a SpaceX rideshare mission dubbed “Transporter 22.” This mission will utilize the reliable Falcon 9 rocket, a vehicle frequently seen launching from the Space Coast.
Here are the key details regarding the upcoming flight:
Making Space Accessible
One of the most significant aspects of Space Beyond’s business model is affordability. Historically, sending DNA or remains to space has been a luxury reserved for the wealthy or famous. Competitors like the Houston-based Celestis—which has flown remains of “Star Trek” creator Gene Roddenberry—typically charge starting rates around $3,495.
In contrast, Space Beyond is offering spots on its inaugural mission for as little as $249. Families who book a reservation receive a kit with instructions on how to collect and return the ashes. While the small satellite will not be visible to the naked eye from the ground, the company plans to provide orbital tracking data so families can know exactly when their loved one is passing overhead.
Local Innovation
The company is deeply rooted in Florida’s aerospace culture. Founder Ryan Mitchell is an aerospace engineer with previous experience at major industry players including NASA and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin. Based in Satellite Beach, the company represents the growing “New Space” economy that is flourishing along the Florida coast, influencing industries from technology to funeral services.
As the launch date approaches, Space Beyond aims to transform the grieving process into a celebration of life and exploration, giving Floridians a chance to look up at the night sky with a renewed sense of connection.
