On Tuesday, Aug. 27, SpaceX is set to launch the Polaris Dawn mission, marking a significant step in advancing human space exploration. This mission will see a team of four private astronauts embarking on a daring journey 870 miles above Earth, with plans for the first-ever spacewalk from a private spaceship.
The Polaris Program, of which Polaris Dawn is the first of three crewed spaceflights, aims to push the boundaries of human spaceflight capabilities. The ultimate goal is to conduct the first human spaceflight in SpaceX's Starship, following the completion of these missions.
The crew for the Polaris Dawn mission includes billionaire Jared Isaacman, who previously led the Inspiration4 mission, along with retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Scott Poteet, and two Lead Space Operations Engineers at SpaceX, Sarah Gillis and Anna Menon.
During their five-day orbit, the crew will achieve the highest Earth orbit ever flown, conduct the world's first commercial spacewalk, and test Starlink laser-based communication. Scientific research into human health in space, including decompression sickness and space radiation, will also be carried out.
In addition to its scientific objectives, Polaris Dawn will continue the philanthropic efforts of Inspiration4 by raising funds for Jude Children's Research Hospital and promoting children's literacy with a reading of a book from orbit.
Looking ahead, the Polaris Program may include a mission to extend the life of the Hubble Space Telescope, responding to NASA's call for commercial space companies to propose solutions for its re-boost.
While the spacewalk from a Dragon capsule presents challenges due to the absence of an airlock and robotic arm, the Polaris Dawn mission represents a significant milestone in private space exploration.
As we witness this historic moment in human spaceflight, let us continue to look up and imagine the possibilities that lie beyond our own world.
