Polaris Dawn: Testing SpaceX's Capabilities for a Commercial Space Program

The Polaris Dawn mission, set to launch in 2024, will orbit Earth at a higher altitude than any astronauts have in over 50 years. It will feature the first private spacewalk and aims to test SpaceX's capabilities.

The crew of four will conduct various tests, including communications and radiation studies. The mission is part of Jared Isaacman's Polaris program, which aims to raise funds for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and expand SpaceX's abilities for future space exploration.

The mission will utilize SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon crew capsule. To reduce radiation exposure, the spacecraft will travel to an orbit of approximately 434 miles (700 km).

Polaris Dawn builds on Isaacman's earlier commercial spaceflight and serves as a response to criticisms of billionaires' space activities. Furthermore, the mission will test new technologies such as laser-based satellite communication with Starlink satellites and new spacesuits.