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SpaceX is gearing up for a landmark mission that could see billionaire Jared Isaacman become the first space tourist to attempt a spacewalk. However, the mission, dubbed Polaris Dawn, has hit another delay. Originally planned for late 2022, the mission was first pushed to July 31 and now has a new target date of August 19.

The latest postponement follows a recent incident involving the explosion of another Falcon 9 rocket. Still, SpaceX has attributed the delay to logistical reasons rather than technical issues. “There’s a lot happening at the International Space Station right now,” said Sarah Walker, SpaceX’s director of Dragon mission management, during a recent press briefing. “We’ve decided to prioritize the Crew-9 mission first and will be ready for Polaris Dawn in late summer, once those commitments are fulfilled.”

This will be Isaacman’s second flight with SpaceX, following his previous high-profile journey into orbit in 2021. The Polaris Dawn mission, envisioned as the first of three additional flights, aims to set a new record by venturing farther into Earth’s orbit than any Dragon mission before. Unlike the usual trips to the ISS, Polaris Dawn will orbit separately, providing the unique opportunity for Isaacman and his crew to perform a spacewalk.

Despite the delays, the excitement surrounding the mission remains palpable. It’s not every day that a private individual gets the chance to step out into the vast expanse of space. The mission’s success could pave the way for future private space ventures, marking a significant milestone in space tourism.

As SpaceX finalizes preparations, the world watches with anticipation. The outcome of Polaris Dawn could signal a new era in private space exploration, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for non-professional astronauts.

Key Points:

  • The SpaceX Polaris Dawn mission, featuring billionaire Jared Isaacman, is delayed until at least August 19.
  • The mission, aiming for the world’s first private spacewalk, was postponed due to scheduling conflicts with the International Space Station (ISS).
  • Sarah Walker, SpaceX’s director of Dragon mission management, confirmed the prioritization of the Crew-9 mission to the ISS.
  • This will be Isaacman’s second trip aboard a SpaceX rocket, with plans to fly farther into Earth’s orbit than any previous Dragon mission.
  • The mission will not dock with the ISS, allowing Isaacman and his crew to conduct a spacewalk, marking a significant milestone in private space exploration.

RM Tomi – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News