SpaceX has launched a cryptic payload (Image: GETTY)
It will be the third ever launch of the SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket, the world’s most powerful launch system carrying 24 satellites into orbit around Earth, as well as the ashes of 152 dead people The "space burial" is organised by a company called Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, which accepts small ash samples of deceased loved ones weighing between one and seven grams and packs them into small metal capsules. These individual capsules are then placed into a container that is fitted onto a host satellite and sent into space for a price starting at just under $5,000 (£3,925), Business Insider reported.
Also on board for the STP-2 mission: small portions of the cremated remains of 152 space enthusiasts being sent into orbit by their families through Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, a company that provides launch opportunities for clients who opt for burials in space and what the firm's website describes as "a uniquely compelling memorial experience."
Among those being "launched" (Celestis calls them participants), are former NASA astronaut Bill Pogue, Japanese basketball star Masaru Tomia, and spaceflight historian Dr James Busby.
The company has 15 such launches under its belt, including famed Star Trek "Scotty" actor James Doohan in 2012.
In this case, the remains have been placed inside
