SpaceX is set to make history with the upcoming Polaris Dawn mission, scheduled to launch on August 26, 2024. This groundbreaking mission will feature the first-ever commercial spacewalk, allowing private astronauts to venture outside their spacecraft.
Mission commander Jared Isaacman, alongside three other crew members, will take to the skies aboard SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft.
The Polaris Dawn mission marks a significant milestone as it aims to break the record for the highest altitude achieved by humans since the Apollo program. Isaacman noted this mission allows for learning and testing that's important for future human exploration beyond Earth.
The crew will initially ascend to 1,200 kilometers, which will later be increased to approximately 1,400 kilometers. Such altitude allows the team to gather data on human health and spacecraft performance, particularly concerning radiation exposure.
Isaacman emphasized the historic aspect of this mission, stating, "This is the farthest humans have traveled since the last time humans walked on the Moon over fifty years ago." He expressed excitement about the learning opportunities this mission provides.
During the five-day mission, the crew will conduct numerous operations, including launching the first commercial spacewalk, all without the usual safety nets of previous government-led missions. This will pave the way for future missions to Mars, as it allows for the testing of SpaceX’s first-generation spacewalking suits.
The crew includes pilot Scott Poteet, SpaceX engineers Sarah Gillis and Anna Menon. They will perform the spacewalk under reduced pressure, requiring everyone aboard to wear appropriate spacesuits throughout this adventure.
The spacewalk is planned for the third day of the mission, which is noteworthy as it's expected to take sixteen to twenty minutes of actual time outside the spacecraft. Isaacman noted, "It's time to go out, and it's time to explore. It's time to do these big things and move forward."
To prepare for the spacewalk, the crew will be subject to specific pre-breathe protocols which remove excess nitrogen from their bodies. These preparations help prevent decompression sickness when transitioning to the vacuum of space.
SpaceX has made extensive upgrades to the Crew Dragon spacecraft for this mission. Enhancements include improved life support systems and environmental monitoring gear, ensuring the health and safety of the crew during their time underwater.
Among the modifications is the deployment of the 'Skywalker', which allows crew members to easily maneuver outside the spacecraft. This addition includes handholds and footholds to support them as they navigate the vacuum of space.
Another significant innovation involves testing Starlink's laser communications during the mission. The crew will test how effective this new system could be for future missions, creating new communication pathways and relieving some of the existing satellite load.
This mission is not just about exploration but will also include scientific inquiries. The crew has planned to conduct around 40 different experiments during their time spent at high altitude.
Isaacman’s Polaris Program aims not just at breaking records, but it's also focused on developing technologies to facilitate human permanence on other planets, including Mars. He sees this mission as part of the broader ambition of humanity's quest to explore farther.
The Polaris Dawn crew has touched down at Cape Canaveral to prepare for the upcoming launch, greeted by the excitement of the media and fellow space enthusiasts. The teams are going through final checks as they gear up for liftoff.
Launch is targeted for 3:38 AM ET, with SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket ready to propel them beyond Earth's atmosphere. An extensive four-hour launch window has been provided, allowing flexibility for any adjustments needed before takeoff.
The historic mission will conclude six days later when they splash down at one of seven designated landing sites off Florida's coast. This promises to be not only a notable event for those onboard but also for the future of private space exploration.
Beyond this mission, the Polaris Program has plans for two additional flights, each building on the lessons learned from Polaris Dawn. Isaacman is no stranger to financing ambitious endeavors, having previously sponsored the Inspiration4 mission, which raised significant funds for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.
With the successful launch of Polaris Dawn, the future of private spaceflight looks promising, fueled by rapid technological advancements and ambition. SpaceX founder Elon Musk encapsulated the moment when he tweeted, "First SpaceX spacewalk mission launches in a week. This will be epic!"
