Polaris Dawn mission completes historic spacewalk and prepares for Florida landing

The Polaris Dawn mission, which included the first commercial spacewalk, is nearing its conclusion with a scheduled splashdown off the coast of Dry Tortugas, Florida, at 3:36 a.m. The Crew Dragon capsule, carrying four astronauts, will perform a de-orbit burn to safely re-enter Earth's atmosphere. This mission has set records, including the highest Earth orbit ever traveled by humans, surpassing a 1966 NASA record. The crew's apogee also marked a significant milestone for women in space, as Anna Menon and Sarah Gillis became the first females to reach such heights. During their time in orbit, the crew conducted nearly 40 scientific experiments, focusing on various aspects of space adaptation syndrome, a type of motion sickness experienced in microgravity. The mission also featured a historic spacewalk, where Jared Isaacman and Sarah Gillis tested the functionality of their EVA suits. Gillis, a trained violinist, entertained the crew and Earth with a performance sent via SpaceX's Starlink, showcasing the satellite network's potential for in-space connectivity. As the mission wraps up, the Crew Dragon capsule will deploy parachutes to slow its descent before splashing down in the ocean. Rescue crews will be on standby to retrieve the capsule and ensure the crew's safety. This mission not only highlights the advancements in commercial space travel but also emphasizes the importance of scientific research in understanding human adaptation to space. The successful completion of the Polaris Dawn mission marks a significant achievement for SpaceX and the crew, paving the way for future commercial space endeavors. The mission's accomplishments will contribute to ongoing research and development in space exploration, enhancing our understanding of the challenges faced by astronauts in low-Earth orbit.