Possible uses of this space include microgravity research and space manufacturing.

A similar amount, he said, could also sustain microgravity research exploring weightlessness and its effects on a "life support level" until more money became available.

Where do we conduct the microgravity research and testing needed to learn how to keep the crew alive, healthy and sane during such a flight?

Prospective clients include nations and corporations interested in microgravity research as well as individuals looking for space tourism opportunities.

The rocket conducted microgravity research, and reached an apogee of 293 kilometres.

They said that microgravity research, "which is of little importance in any case, is better done on unmanned platforms."

The council found "no evidence to suggest that microgravity research would lead to significant space-based manufacturing in the next 5 to 10 years."

Far better to do microgravity research on smaller platforms visited by astronauts only rarely.

The MSG can support all key areas of microgravity research as well as other scientific fields.

Around 1980 the lack of a coherent European strategy for development of microgravity research became an evident practical hurdle.