An offer was given to the well-known singer by the Russian parliament, but was later rejected. Madonna would have been visiting the international space station in 2008. However, members of the Russian space agency have blocked the trip, keeping Madonna on the ground.
Russian Parliament member Alexei Mitrofanov felt that sending the Queen of Pop into space could bring a lot of attention to the space program, and bring more galaxy tourists to pay the $20 million fee. Mitrofanov said, "Because of the television possibilities, it would be a pretty serious event in the year of elections in the United States and Russia."
Igor Panarin, a space agency worker, added, "Taking into account her good physical preparedness and financial capabilities, the dream of (Madonna) Louise Ciccone of a space flight could be realized in 2009."