West Berkshire Crematorium now scattering ashes in space with Aura Flights

West Berkshire Crematorium can now offer a final journey that is truly out of this world – scattering ashes in space, writes Tegan Davies.

The ‘Memorial Launch’ service involves ashes being placed inside of a ‘scatter vessel’ which is fitted to a space-capable biodegradable balloon filled with renewable hydrogen gas.

Ashes are then placed in a gentle cascade around 10,000 feet above Earth.

They will spend the following three-to-six months orbiting the globe until they re-enter the atmosphere.

They will then seed the formation of clouds and fall back to earth as raindrops and snowflakes all over the world.

Both the ascent and release will be captured on video, which will create a treasured memorial of the event for friends and family.

The Voyager package involves a ceremonial portion of their loved ones’ ashes travelling up into space, to the same height as the scattering launch, before being returned back down to Earth in a premium miniature urn for their families.

This service is being delivered in partnership with modern memorial service Aura Flights.

West Berkshire Crematorium manager Stephanie Langford said: “Aura Flights is truly out of this world. For centuries, man has looked up at the stars and dreamed of going to space while few of us ever get to do this during our lifetimes.

“There is now an option to travel into space for your final journey.

“Within days of the ashes being scattered, families will receive a personalised memorial video showing their loved one’s final journey among the stars.”

Aura Flights general manager Samantha Richardson said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Westerleigh Group to bring Aura Flights to an even bigger audience.

“From the moment we started talking about a collaboration, they saw how special a space scattering can be and their focus is always on supporting the bereaved throughout their journey, which I really admire.”