Produced by: Tarun Mishra
After several delays, SpaceX is set to launch the Polaris Dawn mission from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39A on Friday, September 6. The launch window opens at 3:33 a.m. EDT, with a four-hour window for liftoff.
Polaris Dawn is the first of three planned missions under the Polaris program, which aims to advance space technology and scientific research. The mission will send a team of four private astronauts on a groundbreaking journey.
The crew includes mission commander Jared Isaacman, entrepreneur and leader of the previous Inspiration4 mission, alongside pilot Scott Poteet and mission specialists Sarah Gillis and Anna Menon. Isaacman is the only crew member with prior spaceflight experience.
Polaris Dawn aims to reach the highest Earth orbit since the Apollo program. The five-day mission will also include the first-ever spacewalk by commercial astronauts, testing SpaceX’s newly designed extravehicular activity (EVA) suits.
The crew will conduct 36 experiments during the mission, focusing on human health and spaceflight research. These studies are intended to improve long-duration spaceflight safety and contribute to medical advancements on Earth.
The mission will also test SpaceX’s Starlink laser-based communication system in orbit, advancing space-based communication technology for future missions.
Polaris Dawn faces unique challenges due to its high orbital altitude, including increased radiation exposure and risks from space debris. These factors make it a key step in preparing for future deep space exploration missions.