Polaris Dawn crew to splashdown in Gulf of Mexico on Sunday

The Polaris Dawn crew concluded a historic commercial spaceflight, preparing for re-entry and splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico early Sunday. The Crew Dragon capsule, carrying billionaire Jared Isaacman and three crew members, is set to fire its braking rockets at 2:40 a.m. EDT, with splashdown expected around 3:36 a.m. A SpaceX recovery ship will be on standby to assist the crew post-landing. This mission, launched from Kennedy Space Center, achieved a record altitude of 875 miles, the highest for a piloted spacecraft since 1972. During the mission, the crew made significant advancements, including the first non-government civilian spacewalk, where Isaacman and engineer Sarah Gillis tested SpaceX-designed pressure suits. This spacewalk aimed to evaluate suit mobility in space, contributing to future designs for missions to the Moon and Mars. The crew also engaged in biomedical research and tested laser communications technology, successfully conducting a video call with SpaceX teams while orbiting the Eastern Seaboard. Gillis showcased her musical talent by participating in an international concert, performing alongside young musicians from various countries. This mission is the first of three planned by Isaacman in collaboration with SpaceX, with future flights including another Crew Dragon mission and the inaugural piloted flight of the Super Heavy-Starship rocket. The Polaris Dawn mission marks a significant milestone in commercial space exploration, demonstrating the capabilities of private spaceflight and setting new records. SpaceX has now launched a total of 54 individuals to orbit since the beginning of its piloted flights in May 2020, further solidifying its role in the future of space travel.