So far there is no fully functional hyperloop in the world, and it has never been tested with human passengers. But the federal government has recently laid out the framework for regulating the hyperloop, giving hope to companies like Virgin Hyperloop One that it may eventually break ground on a full sized operational hyperloop system.

On the downside it will have to raise millions of dollars in funding, acquire enormous tracts of land, and certify that the hyperloop can be operated safely. We are not sure you will see it in our lifetimes.

Beardy founder of Virgin Group, Richard Branson, said that the certification center is a first step toward that goal.

"The Hyperloop Certification Center is the start of the hyperloop journey for West Virginia, for the United States, and for the world. We're one step closer to making hyperloop travel a reality for people everywhere."

Virgin Hyperloop One is seeking to build its first hyperloop system not in the US, but in India. Its project in the western district of Maharashtra aims to become the first system certified as safe for human passengers. Officials there have named the company and its partners as the originators of the multibillion dollar infrastructure project.