Over 100 km altitude IS "space" by international scientific definition. Damn little atmosphere at that altitude. (It slowly fades away with altitude.) It is interesting how you play the "sour grapes" lament, calling them names and disparaging their ability to pay for the ride. Space Shuttle mission specialists were also passengers, but they legitimately earned the status of "astronaut."
Over 100 km altitude IS "space" by international scientific definition. Damn little atmosphere at that altitude. (It slowly fades away with altitude.) It is interesting how you play the "sour grapes" lament, calling them names and disparaging their ability to pay for the ride. Space Shuttle mission specialists were also passengers, but they legitimately earned the status of "astronaut."