I didn't realise it until recently but John Carmack, founder of id software, producer of the Doom games, has another project: he is running a team in the X Prize. If you haven't heard of this then visit the web site which states: "The ANSARI X PRIZE is a $10,000,000 prize to jumpstart the space tourism industry through competition among the most talented entrepreneurs and rocket experts in the world.", and John Carmacks team, Armadillo Aerospace is right up there in the running.
Well at least he was until a recent crash, although recent news is still positive, and all in all it makes fascinating reading. I recommend you take the time to have a look.