How to Watch SpaceX’s Historic Polaris Dawn Mission Launch Live
SpaceX is setting the stage for a groundbreaking event with the launch of the Polaris Dawn mission. Slated for Monday, August 26, this mission is making history as it will carry an all-civilian crew to the highest orbit ever achieved by a Crew Dragon spacecraft and feature the first-ever commercial spacewalk. Here’s everything you need to know about how to catch this monumental event live.
What to Expect from the Polaris Dawn Mission
The Polaris Dawn mission is not just another spaceflight. This mission will push the boundaries of private space travel, reaching new heights and setting new milestones.
Key Highlights of the Polaris Dawn Mission
- Launch Date and Time: SpaceX aims to launch the Polaris Dawn mission on Monday, August 26, at 3:38 a.m. ET (12:38 a.m. PT).
- Mission Duration: The mission will span five days, during which the Crew Dragon spacecraft will reach an orbit approximately 435 miles (700 kilometers) above Earth.
- Crew Composition: Led by Jared Isaacman, the mission will include three other non-professional astronauts: Scott Poteet, Sarah Gillis, and Anna Menon.
The Crew and Their Roles
- Jared Isaacman: As the mission commander and funding sponsor, Isaacman is an experienced space traveller and CEO of Shift4. He previously flew on SpaceX’s Inspiration4 mission.
- Scott Poteet: A retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel with a background in aviation.
- Sarah Gillis: A lead space operations engineer at SpaceX, responsible for astronaut training.
- Anna Menon: Also a lead space operations engineer at SpaceX, focusing on crew operations and mission control.
Mission Objectives
- Highest Orbit Achievement: The Crew Dragon will achieve its highest orbit yet, setting a new record for space travel.
- Spacewalk: Isaacman and Gillis will perform a two-hour spacewalk to test a newly designed spacesuit, essential for future long-duration missions.
- Science and Technology Experiments: The crew will conduct various scientific and technological tests while in orbit.
How to Watch the Launch Live
Watching the Polaris Dawn mission launch is simple. SpaceX will live-stream the event from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Here’s how you can tune in:
- Live Stream on X: SpaceX will broadcast the launch live on X (formerly known as Twitter). Follow SpaceX’s official account for real-time updates and the live feed.
- Timing: The launch is scheduled for 3:38 a.m. ET (12:38 a.m. PT). The launch window will last for four hours, providing ample time for the event.
What to Expect During the Live Stream
- Ground Cameras: You’ll see footage from the Kennedy Space Center, capturing the final countdown and liftoff.
- Rocket Exterior: Cameras will show the Falcon 9 rocket’s exterior during the launch phase.
- Crew Dragon Capsule: Inside views of the Crew Dragon capsule will be available, giving you a glimpse into the spacecraft’s interior and the crew’s activities.
Potential Schedule Changes
Space missions are subject to change due to various factors. If there are any adjustments to the schedule, we will update this page promptly. For the latest information, keep an eye on the Polaris Dawn X account and SpaceX’s official channels.
Why This Mission Matters
The Polaris Dawn mission is a significant leap in the field of commercial space travel. It represents the growing involvement of private entities in space exploration and sets a precedent for future missions. The integration of civilian astronauts and the execution of a commercial spacewalk underscore the expanding possibilities of space tourism and private space operations.
Stay Updated with Polaris Dawn
To ensure you don’t miss any updates about the Polaris Dawn mission, follow these links for more information and real-time updates:
