Private Spacewalk Delayed: Polaris Dawn Mission Postponed to Summer 2024
Excitement has been building for the first-ever private spacewalk, but it seems we’ll have to wait a little longer. The highly anticipated launch of the private Polaris Dawn mission has been delayed from April to no earlier than this summer, according to an announcement made by its organizers on Thursday.
The Polaris Dawn mission is set to achieve a significant milestone by conducting the first private spacewalk. In addition to this groundbreaking feat, the mission will also test SpaceX’s Starlink internet service in space and carry out a range of scientific experiments. The delay is necessary to ensure the completion of these mission goals and the safe launch and return of Dragon and the crew, as stated by the Polaris Program.
SpaceX will play a crucial role in the Polaris Dawn mission, providing the hardware necessary for its success. The mission will see four individuals launched into Earth orbit in a Crew Dragon capsule atop a Falcon 9 rocket. Leading the crew is Jared Isaacman, the billionaire behind the Polaris Program. Accompanying him are retired U.S. Air Force colonel Scott Poteet, as well as SpaceX employees Sarah Gillis and Anna Menon. Isaacman will serve as the mission commander, with Poteet as the pilot, Gillis as the payload specialist, and Menon as the medical officer.
During its time in Earth orbit, Polaris Dawn is expected to spend up to five days. Similar to the Inspiration4 mission in September 2021, which Isaacman also commanded and funded, Polaris Dawn will be a free flyer and will not dock with the International Space Station. Furthermore, the mission aims to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, just like Inspiration4 did.
This recent delay is not the first setback for the Polaris Dawn mission. Originally scheduled for a late 2022 launch, the mission has faced several challenges along the way. However, the organizers remain committed to pushing the boundaries of private spaceflight through the Polaris Program.
Looking ahead, Jared Isaacman has expressed his intention to utilize SpaceX’s next-generation Starship rocket for at least one of the upcoming Polaris missions. The Starship rocket has already completed two test flights in April and November of last year, with a third flight potentially taking place this month.
While the delay may disappoint some eager space enthusiasts, it is crucial to prioritize safety and ensure the successful completion of the mission’s objectives. The Polaris Dawn mission represents a significant step forward in private space exploration and paves the way for future groundbreaking missions. As we eagerly await its launch in the summer of 2024, the world holds its breath in anticipation of the historic private spacewalk and the scientific advancements it will bring.