On March 31, SpaceX is set to embark on a groundbreaking mission, the Fram2 flight, which will see cryptocurrency billionaire Chun Wang and three crewmates venture into orbit. This mission marks the first of its kind, as it will take a crew of astronauts over the Earth's poles. The liftoff is scheduled for 9:46 p.m. EDT (01:46 a.m. April 1 GMT) from the iconic Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, located in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
The Fram2 mission will feature a diverse and skilled crew. Leading the team is mission commander Chun Wang, who has financed this ambitious flight. He will be joined by vehicle commander Jannicke Mikkelsen from Norway, pilot Rabea Rogge from Germany, and Eric Phillips, an Australian polar explorer serving as the mission's medical officer and specialist.
Jannicke Mikkelsen is renowned for her work as a filmmaker in extreme environments, including the Arctic and open seas. Rabea Rogge, a skilled engineer and scientist, specializes in robotics and polar research, bringing a wealth of knowledge to the flight. Eric Phillips is recognized for leading numerous expeditions to both the North and South Poles, adding valuable experience to the mission.
The Fram2 flight is expected to last between three to five days in orbit. During this time, the crew will engage in an array of scientific activities, conducting 22 unique experiments focused on studying the Earth's poles from a unique vantage point in space. This innovative research aims to enhance our understanding of climate change and polar environments.
Upon completion of their mission, the Fram2 crew is anticipated to return to Earth with a spectacular splashdown at sea, marking the conclusion of a historic journey.
In the days leading up to the launch, SpaceX successfully rolled out the Falcon 9 rocket to the launch pad and conducted a launch dress rehearsal with the crew. On Sunday, the company executed a successful static test fire of the Falcon 9's first stage, solidifying readiness for today’s launch.
For those eager to witness this momentous event, the launch will be streamed live on Space.com, courtesy of SpaceX, offering viewers an opportunity to experience the excitement of this historic astronaut flight.
The Fram2 mission not only represents a significant milestone in space exploration but also highlights the growing intersection of private enterprise and scientific research, paving the way for future missions beyond Earth's atmosphere.
