'Boundless horizons': Two women astronauts set a new record for the furthest flight in history
Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Record-Breaking Achievement for Women in Space
SpaceX engineers Anna Menon and Sarah Gillis made history by flying farther from Earth than any woman before them, as part of the Polaris Dawn mission launched on September 10, 2024.
Unprecedented Altitude in Polaris Dawn Mission
The Polaris Dawn crew, led by billionaire Jared Isaacman, reached an altitude of 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) above Earth’s surface, surpassing the previous record set during the Gemini 11 mission in 1966.
Milestone for Women in Space Exploration
This achievement not only advanced private spaceflight but also broke significant barriers for women in space exploration, marking a historic milestone for Menon and Gillis.
Key Roles in the Mission
Menon and Gillis are mission specialists for Polaris Dawn. Gillis leads crew training for private space missions, while Menon serves as the onboard medical officer, contributing to the mission's success.
Anna Menon’s Spacewalk Achievement
On September 12, Anna Menon became the first woman to conduct a private spacewalk alongside Jared Isaacman, adding another historic accomplishment to the mission.
Mission Objectives Beyond Record Setting
Apart from setting altitude records, the Polaris Dawn mission aims to test Starlink's laser-based communications and conduct various scientific experiments, including studying the effects of space radiation on the human body.
Impact of Space Environment on Human Physiology
Their journey through the Van Allen radiation belt will provide valuable data on how space radiation impacts spacecraft systems and human physiology, advancing research in space health.
Inspiration for Future Generations
Menon and Gillis's record-breaking flight highlights the increasing role of women in space and serves as an inspiration for future generations of women in science and exploration.