SpaceX, the pioneering space exploration company founded by Elon Musk, is about to embark on a groundbreaking mission called Polaris Dawn. This mission will involve sending four astronauts into orbit aboard the Crew Dragon capsule as they navigate through the Van Allen radiation belts.
Polaris Dawn, funded by private astronaut Jared Isaacman, will feature a crew of four individuals who have been specially trained for this mission. Alongside Isaacman, the crew includes retired US Air Force fighter pilot Scott Poteet, as well as SpaceX engineers Anna Menon and Sarah Gillis. Isaacman and Gillis will conduct the first-ever spacewalk by private astronauts around 430 miles above Earth.
In addition to the spacewalk, the Polaris Dawn mission aims to test SpaceX’s extravehicular activity (EVA) spacesuits, which boast new materials for improved mobility. The crew will also wear upgraded suits during the spacewalk to account for the lack of an airlock in the Crew Dragon capsule. This mission will provide valuable insights into the effects of space radiation on the human body, as the capsule passes through the Van Allen belts.
Moreover, the astronauts will test Starlink’s satellite internet technology for communication with Earth and conduct research on decompression sickness and Spaceflight Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome. The mission represents a significant step forward in space exploration technology and research capabilities.
Launch Details
The Polaris Dawn mission is set to launch on Tuesday, August 27th, with SpaceX targeting a 3:38AM ET launch time. In the event of any delays, SpaceX has scheduled two additional launch times. The Crew Dragon capsule will be launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
For those interested in witnessing this historic mission, SpaceX will provide a live stream of the launch on its website and the X page. The coverage is expected to begin at approximately 12:05AM ET. The spacewalk, planned for the third day of the mission, will also be streamed live for viewers to tune in and witness this groundbreaking moment in space exploration history.
The Polaris Dawn mission by SpaceX represents a significant milestone in the realm of space exploration. With its ambitious objectives, cutting-edge technology, and groundbreaking spacewalk, this mission is poised to make its mark on the future of space travel and research. Stay tuned to witness this historic journey unfold before your eyes.
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