SpaceX is set to launch Polaris Dawn, its second all-civilian mission, following Inspiration4 in 2021 and the first in the Polaris program.
Polaris Dawn, initially announced in 2022, seeks to push SpaceX’s technological limits and facilitate a sustained human presence in space. This is the first of three missions funded by billionaire Jared Isaacman, who also backed Inspiration4. Despite several delays, the launch is scheduled for no earlier than July 12, according to Isaacman.
Polaris Dawn Mission
The mission includes the first commercial space commercial spacewalkadvanced research on human health in space, onboard Starlink WiFi testing and reaching an orbit more than 800 miles above Earth, the farthest distance since the Apollo missions. SpaceX sees Polaris Dawn as an essential precursor to its Starship spacecraft, intended to carry hundreds of humans to orbit, the Moon and Mars.
The SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule capsule will carry four members: Isaacman, former Air Force Lt. Col. Scott “Kidd” Poteet, and SpaceX engineers Sarah Gillis and Anna Menon. For five days, the crew will orbit the Earth, traversing the Van Allen radiation belts, a feat not accomplished since the Apollo era.
This pathway will allow the collection of medical data on the radiation and other health research, such as the study of decompression sickness.
Health and spacewalking
A key experiment will address “spaceflight-associated neuroocular syndrome” (SANS), a significant challenge for long-duration spaceflight. a significant challenge for long-duration spaceflight. Changes in cerebrospinal fluid pressure in microgravity can cause blurred vision. Poteet will volunteer as a subject for the first invasive measurement of this pressure in space, using a pre-flight implanted device.
The mission will also attempt the first spacewalk by a private mission, outside the purview of government agencies. Equipped with SpaceX EVA suits, designed to be more flexible and accessible, the crew will spend approximately two hours outside the spacecraft. SpaceX seeks to inspire a future with a base on the Moon and a city on Mars, as Isaacman explained.
Polaris Dawn commander and pilot report on SpaceX spacesuits. Source: Spaceflight Now
Intense preparation and beneficial goals for SpaceX mission
One of the mission objectives is to test Starlink from the spacecraft, ensuring connectivity even far from Earth. As with Inspiration4, funds will be raised for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Jude, and Menon will read his children’s book in orbit to motivate children in science.
The crew has been training intensively for years, with activities such as skydiving and mountaineering. However, the launch still depends on the necessary technology and could face further delays. Even so, when achieved, it will mark a milestone in space exploration and provide valuable information for future missions.
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Source and photo: popsci
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