SpaceX Readies Polaris Dawn Crew for Daring Spacewalk Mission Amid Uncertain Weather Conditions

SpaceX is preparing for another attempt to launch Polaris Dawn, a high-risk mission sending four civilians into space for a historic spacewalk within Earth’s radiation belts. The mission, initially delayed by technical and weather issues in August, is now slated to launch from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, as early as 3:38 a.m. ET on Tuesday. Should weather conditions prevent the launch, other windows are available at 5:23 a.m. ET and 7:09 a.m. ET the same day, with further opportunities on Wednesday morning.

Forecasts remain uncertain, with a 60% chance of unfavorable conditions, while mission controllers are also monitoring splashdown site weather for the crew’s planned return after their five-day space journey. Despite the risk, mission commander Jared Isaacman expressed optimism, noting improved conditions compared to previous weeks.

Isaacman, who is funding the mission, is joined by Scott Poteet, a former US Air Force pilot, and SpaceX engineers Anna Menon and Sarah Gillis. This flight marks the first time a civilian crew will conduct extravehicular activities, scheduled for the third day of the mission.

Polaris Dawn will venture into the Van Allen radiation belts, making it the first human mission to reach that far into space since the Apollo program ended in 1972. Given the reliance on oxygen supplies for the spacewalk, timing is crucial to ensure the mission’s on-time return.

In addition to Polaris Dawn, SpaceX is also preparing for NASA’s Europa Clipper mission, set for an October launch to explore Jupiter’s icy moon.