Bob Geldof is planning to fly into space on a commercial flight in 2014.
No, we're not making this up…
Space Expedition Corporation (SXC) is planning to launch a new range of flights into space in 2014, with the company aiming to make space travel available to ordinary people. Flights start at $100,000 with up to 100 people set to take part in the project in its inauguration next year.
Amongst the first commercial astronauts are DJ Armin van Buuren and Victoria's Secret model Doutzen Kroes, with the BBC also reporting that Bob Geldof intends to take part in the project.
"Being the first Irishman in space is not only a fantastic honour but pretty mind-blowing" he said in a statement. "The first rock astronaut space rat! Elvis may have left the building but Bob Geldof will have left the Planet! Wild! Who would have thought it possible in my lifetime."
Training for the journey is set to begin almost immediately – Bob Geldof will fly out to the Netherlands this weekend to begin work in a simulator.
The decision has caused immediate controversy on social networks, with many arguing that the charity campaigner would be better suited to solving issues on this planet before travelling to outer space. However others have argued that Bob Geldof is entitled to spend his own hard earned money in whatever fashion he pleases.
What's your view? Leave your thoughts in the comments section…
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