GRU Space announced on Monday that it is now accepting reservations for future stays at a lunar hotel, with deposits ranging from $250,000 to $1 million securing a spot on early lunar surface missions projected to begin in as little as six years. The company, founded by recent University of California, Berkeley graduate Skyler Chan, envisions a series of increasingly sophisticated lunar habitats, culminating in a hotel inspired by the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco.

The ambitious project enters a burgeoning space tourism market, though GRU Space currently operates with a small team. As of late December, the company had only one full-time employee besides Chan. Despite the company's size, Chan expressed confidence in the long-term viability of lunar tourism.

"I am a sucker for these kinds of stories," the founder stated in an interview, emphasizing his belief that tourism represents the most promising long-term commercial opportunity on the Moon, surpassing resource extraction.

The financial commitment required for a reservation reflects the significant investment needed to develop lunar infrastructure. The company aims to establish a presence on the Moon, capitalizing on the growing interest in space exploration and tourism. While the cost of a lunar stay remains substantial, GRU Space hopes to attract early adopters and space enthusiasts willing to invest in the experience.

The announcement comes amid increasing activity in the private space sector, with companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin making strides in space travel and infrastructure development. GRU Space aims to carve out a niche in lunar tourism, offering a unique and exclusive experience for those seeking the ultimate getaway. The company's next steps involve securing funding, developing habitat technology, and planning initial lunar missions.