In a groundbreaking achievement, two astronauts successfully completed the first-ever commercial spacewalk using SpaceX’s new, streamlined spacesuits. Tech billionaire Jared Isaacman, who funded the mission, and SpaceX engineer Sarah Gillis spent nearly 30 minutes outside their spacecraft at an altitude of approximately 700 km, surpassing the distance traveled by any human since the Apollo Moon landings.
The Polaris Dawn mission is notable for several reasons. The primary highlight is the testing of new spacesuits for extravehicular activity (EVA), which is crucial as NASA’s planned Artemis missions to the Moon draw near. The mission’s elliptical orbit, ranging from 192 km to 1,400 km, allows for testing the suits in regions of high radiation, including the South Atlantic Anomaly. Additionally, Polaris Dawn carries 36 different experiments, focusing on studying the effects of spaceflight on the human body.
Isaacman plans to undertake three missions with SpaceX, aiming to “open up space for everyone and make humankind a multiplanetary species.” The second mission may involve boosting the Hubble Space Telescope’s orbit, while the third could utilize SpaceX’s reusable Starship rocket, currently in early testing stages.
Polaris Dawn represents a significant step forward for commercial spaceflight. Unlike previous “space tourism” ventures, this mission, funded by private wealth, contributes to scientific knowledge and the future of space exploration. SpaceX maintains a high level of professionalism, with four highly qualified and prepared astronauts participating in Polaris Dawn.
The spacewalk coincides with two NASA astronauts stranded on the International Space Station due to issues with Boeing’s Starliner space vehicle. It is anticipated that these astronauts will be rescued by a SpaceX vehicle in February, developed at a fraction of the cost of Boeing’s.
Critics of non-government spaceflight argue that commercial interests and private control should not overshadow the scientific nature of space exploration. SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, has faced criticism regarding environmental concerns and treatment of staff. However, the involvement of private companies has led to significant advancements in space technology and cost reduction. Private companies will undoubtedly play a crucial role when humanity returns to the Moon and ventures to Mars and beyond.
While Polaris Dawn is a passion project for Isaacman, it is not a mere vanity project. Its contributions to science and technology will benefit all future human endeavors, both in space and on Earth.
