Jeff Bezos

The aim is to develop technology which will allow cells to be biologically reprogrammed, so they are rejuvenated and will prolong human life.

The Duke of Cambridge said the "world's greatest brains" should be focused on "trying to repair this planet" rather than blasting off into space.

The 90-year-old was supposed to depart Earth on Tuesday as part of a crew aboard Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin but weather conditions put pay to that for 24 hours.