Polaris Dawn Astronauts Get Ready to Launch: What to Know

Historic Mission to Test Human Performance Beyond Low-Earth Orbit

SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft is scheduled to lift off from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, on September 15th, carrying four astronauts on a five-day mission to test the limits of human performance beyond low-Earth orbit. The Polaris Dawn mission, led by Jared Isaacman, is the first in a series of private spaceflights aimed at advancing human space exploration.

Who’s on the Crew?

Joining Isaacman on the Polaris Dawn mission are three other astronauts: Scott Poteet, a former NASA astronaut; Sarah Gillis, a physician assistant; and Anna Menon, an astronaut candidate. The crew will conduct a series of experiments to study the effects of space travel on the human body, including radiation exposure and muscle loss.

What Will the Mission Accomplish?

The Polaris Dawn mission is designed to test new technologies and procedures for future space missions. The crew will test a new spacesuit designed to provide better protection against radiation, and they will also test a new system for docking with other spacecraft in space. The mission will also provide data on the effects of long-duration space travel on the human body, which will be essential for planning future missions to Mars and beyond.

What’s Next for Polaris Dawn?

After the Polaris Dawn mission, Isaacman plans to continue supporting space exploration through his Polaris Program. The program aims to develop new technologies and capabilities for space travel, with the ultimate goal of sending humans to Mars. Isaacman has said that he hopes the Polaris Dawn mission will inspire future generations of space explorers.