FAA disqualifies Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson as atronauts

pub-1983860445386454 The two leading American billionaires Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson have in recent days found themselves in limelight, with each touring the edge of space on their own ships and describing the journey as ''work'' to the benefit of entire human race.But with all the efforts made, the two billionaires still have nothing to smile about, going by the assertions of the Federation of Aviation Administration that they are still not regarded as astronauts.Early last month, Blue Origin, owned by Jeff Bezos came out strongly , pointing out the difference between its New Shepard rocket and the Virgin Galactic, owned by Branson, saying that its rocket will fly above the Kaman line, reaching an altitude of 62 miles (100 km) as compared to the latter that only reached 50 miles (80 km), meaning it didn't reach the space.According to FAA, Bezos has no right to brag as an astronaut just because he flew higher. Since Commercial Astronaut Wing Program was established in 2004, FAA has put in place some conditions that must be applied for one to be called an astronaut and get astronaut wing.Among the conditions in place include travelling 50 miles (80km) above Earth which the two have so far met. However, FAA is now saying that for one to be an astronaut, they should demonstrate activities that are essential to public safety, or that contribute to human flight safety during flights, and neither the two have met the requirement.Bezos and Branson have in several occasions stated that their space launches are for the benefit of the people and might in the coming days help to solve the problems on Earth. If what they allege is anything to go by, then a lot might be achieved, but for now, both their missions were just experimental launches, characterized by expensive spending and joyride.It is now a matter of wait and see, the steps Bezos and Branson will make, noting that FAA will not be awarding them their astronaut wings anytime soon.

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