September 12th 2024.
The historic moment has finally arrived as billionaire Jared Isaacman leads the world's first commercial spacewalk. Along with a team of three astronauts, Isaacman blasted off into space yesterday as part of SpaceX's Polaris Dawn mission. The main objective of this mission is to test the company's latest EVA spacesuits in actual space conditions.
The entire spacewalk is expected to take around two hours, with Isaacman and fellow SpaceX engineer Sarah Gillis spending approximately 15 minutes each outside the spacecraft. Unlike traditional space capsules, this one does not have an airlock. As a result, the entire craft will be depressurized during the walk, requiring all crew members to solely rely on their spacesuits for breathing.
Isaacman and Gillis will be connected by an "umbilical" cord during the spacewalk, which will not only provide them with air and cooling but also ensure their safety by preventing them from floating away into the vastness of space. As the SpaceX commentator explained on the live stream, this cord is essential for the success of the mission.
Meanwhile, the other crew members, Anna Menon Scott and 'Kidd' Poteet, will remain inside the spacecraft to support the spacewalkers. Their role includes providing oxygen and power, as well as monitoring and ensuring the smooth functioning of the mission.
The entire crew is now suited up and ready to perform the necessary checks on their EVA suits before stepping out into space. In an exciting moment captured on the live stream, they are seen fist-bumping each other as they prepare for the depressurization process.
This mission is a significant milestone in the development and practicality of commercial space travel. It is a crucial proof of concept that will pave the way for easier and more affordable access to space in the future. So far, only well-funded state-run agencies like NASA and Roscosmos have achieved the feat of conducting spacewalks. With this mission's success, commercial space travel will become a more realistic and feasible option.
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