Richard Garriott, perhaps better known to gamers as Ultima series designer Lord British, was launched into space aboard Russia's Soyuz TMA-13 capsule today.

As reported by the BBC, Garriott is heading for the International Space Station, accompanied by a U.S. astronaut and a Russian cosmonaut. Garriott's father, Owen, an American astronaut, was on hand for the launch.

Garriott paid $30 million for the ride, but hopes to recoup much of that amount. Toward that end, he will be conducting experiments, including a protein crystal growth study, aboard the spacecraft

GP: There's probably no truth to the rumor that Garriott will be using his trade skills to craft new, crystal-jeweled space items for Ultima Online. 

Thanks to: Longtime GP reader Chuma for gently reminding me of the launch.