World's First Orbiting 'Timeshare'

As a travel writer I am always searching for a new or unusual destination to visit or write about. You can imagine my excitement when I was recently approached by some overseas business men to explore the possibilities of a 'Timeshare' in Space!
The scene is a family home in the year 2030. The family is discussing their coming family vacation. Each year they trade their home based timeshare to visit some unusual destination.

"Where are we going this year Dad?" one of the children asked.

"Well how about we re-visit 'Star Shield International', the orbiting resort. We had such a great time last year in outer Space!

"Oh no, not again - nothing to do but float around all day and watch planet Earth!" The youngster replied. "No beaches, no golf.....can't we go to Disney?

I must admit the concept fascinated me and I determined to explore further. To my amazement I discovered we already have an orbiting timeshare!

It is non other than our presently orbiting International Space Station. Over 15 countries have combined to bring about this space age wonder. The construction started in 1998 and the first crew occupied the station in 2000; one American and two Russians cosmonauts. According to NASA the station, on completion will provide accommodation equal to a 5 bedroom house, made up of about 8 cylindrical sections referred to as modules. Already eight solar panels supply more than 100 kilowatts of electric power, enough to supply approximately 50 homes here on earth.

Like most timeshare resorts, the space station was feasible only by the combined investment of a large number of contributing investors who carry their share of the unbelievable maintenance costs.

NASA's estimate of the space stations life expectancy is approximately 15 years, however experts maintain that it could last for decades if parts are repaired and replaced as they wear out or are damaged!

Already trips to outer space are practical if you have deep enough pockets!

Private corporations are finalizing space craft that will enable the public to venture into outer space - like Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic - you can visit Virgin's web site by following the links below. A few private individuals have already made the journey to the Space Station with the aid of the Russians, at a cost well beyond the reach of most of us! For an amazing look at the present 'orbiting timeshare' and to visit Virgin Galactic's web site where you can book your trip for a mere $200,000.00 simply follow the links below.

http://www.NASA.gov

http://virgingalactic.com

http://starshieldinternational.com