Polaris Dawn performs first commercial spacewalk in SpaceX suits

During the spacewalk, four astronauts were exposed to the vacuum of space at the same time for the first time in history.

Ruth Arteaga.

Published: September 12, 2024

Share on social networks

The Polaris Dawn mission has marked a major breakthrough in the commercialization of space by completing the first commercial spacewalk. This operation was conducted by astronauts Jared Isaacman and Sarah Gillis, who tested the new EVA spacesuits developed by SpaceX. The spacewalk was conducted while the spacecraft traveled at 17,500 miles per hour in a 190 x 700 km orbit above Earth.

Polaris Dawn and SpaceX achieve successful spacewalk

Preparations for this operation began just after liftoff, with a two-day prebreathing process. This allowed the astronauts to acclimatize to the low pressures and high oxygen levels necessary for extravehicular activity (EVA). Once ready, the astronauts left the Dragon capsule and, for the first time in history, four people were exposed to the vacuum of space simultaneously.

During the spacewalk, the crew evaluated the mobility and thermal systems of the n u evolved EVA suits, which incorporate advanced technology such as a front screen and new materials.suits, which incorporate advanced technology such as a head-up display and new materials. These tests are critical to the advancement of manned spaceflight. manned spaceflight and to SpaceX’s and SpaceX’s goal of making life multi-planetary.

Commander Isaacman expressed his excitement at observing the Earth from space, describing it as a perfect place from his perspective. Ground support was provided by the team from SpaceX team from Hawthorne, California, ensuring the safety of the mission.

The crew of Polaris Dawn will continue its mission, with more tests and experiments before its return to Earth. This achievement reinforces SpaceX’s role in private space sector leadership.