The Da Vinci Project

The Da Vinci Project was an initiative launched in the late 1990s aiming to develop a reusable, manned spacecraft capable of reaching low Earth orbit without relying on government space agencies. Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's innovative spirit, it focused on creating a satellite-like vehicle that could be launched quickly and cost-effectively. Though it ultimately did not reach operational status, the project contributed to the dialogue on private space exploration and demonstrated the potential for commercial efforts to participate in space travel.