Polaris Dawn is in orbit

A short diary here.  But Polaris Dawn is in orbit!!!

Background — The Polaris Dawn mission is designed to demonstrate commercial EVA capabilities, and also to be the highest flying astronaut mission that stayed in Earth Orbit, exceeding Gemini 11.  This means they will pass through the Van Allen radiation belts as part of scientific research.  And then later on in the week, as mentioned, they’ll also be doing the first commercial spacewalk.   

The Launch — It was picture perfect.  The first stage returned to the landing barge just fine, and the Dragon capsule went into orbit as expected.  I will admit I still get goosebumps from watching launches, even as jaded as I am.  

The Altitude — Later today, if all goes according to plan, they’ll fly to an altitude of up to 1,400 km.  That is substantially higher than any previous mission outside of the Apollo Lunar missions.  

The Walk — On day 3 of the mission, they’ll be doing the first commercial spacewalk.  This will be a test of the EVA suit, to see how it works for commercial operations.  

Exciting times.