After multiple delays, SpaceX is preparing to launch the Polaris Dawn mission on Friday, September 6, 2024. The mission is now scheduled to lift off from Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39A during a four-hour window beginning at 3:33 a.m. EDT. On the same day, NASA will oversee the uncrewed return of the troubled Boeing Starliner to Earth. This mission stands out not only for its ambitious goals but also for featuring the first-ever spacewalk by private citizens.
A New Era in Space Exploration
Led by billionaire entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, Polaris Dawn is more than just a spaceflight; it marks the beginning of a new era in space exploration, where civilians take centre stage. The mission aims to reach a peak altitude of 870 miles (1,400 kilometres) — the highest achieved by a crewed mission in over 50 years since NASA’s Apollo programme.
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Where to watch it Live
Joining Isaacman on this historic journey are Sarah Gillis, Anna Menon, and Scott Poteet. The crew will launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center at 1:03 pm IST, and the event will be live-streamed on SpaceX’s page on X.
One of the most anticipated moments of the Polaris Dawn mission is the spacewalk scheduled for the third day. Jared Isaacman and Sarah Gillis will venture outside the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft in newly designed extravehicular activity (EVA) suits, while Menon and Poteet will provide support from inside the craft.
These EVA suits represent a significant leap in space safety. Made from stretchable, fireproof material, they can withstand the extreme conditions of space. The suits also feature redundant seals and pressure valves to prevent any potentially life-threatening accidents. Additionally, the crew will wear 3D-printed helmets with a single visor made of copper and indium-tin oxide, designed to protect against micrometeoroids and the harsh space environment.
Pushing the Boundaries of Science
Beyond the spacewalk, Polaris Dawn is set to conduct 36 research studies and experiments in collaboration with 31 partner institutions. These experiments are aimed at advancing human health, both on Earth and during long-duration spaceflights.
The mission has faced delays, first due to a technical glitch in the launch tower and later because of unfavourable weather conditions. However, as the countdown to September 6 continues, the anticipation for what could be one of the most groundbreaking missions in space history is palpable.
With Polaris Dawn, SpaceX is not just pushing the boundaries of space exploration but also redefining who can be a part of it. As we witness this historic event, the world will be watching not just the mission but the dawn of a new chapter in human spaceflight.
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