CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida – In a groundbreaking move for space exploration, tech billionaire Jared Isaacman is set to embark on the first private spacewalk on Thursday, just two days after launching from Florida on a chartered SpaceX flight. Collaborating with SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, Isaacman aims to revolutionize space travel by venturing into the highly dangerous and challenging realm of spacewalking. This marks a significant step for the private space industry, breaking the monopoly held by governments of only 12 countries that have conducted spacewalks.
Retired NASA astronaut Chris Cassidy, who has firsthand experience of the risks involved in spacewalking, emphasizes the intensive training and unique skills required for this endeavor. Spacewalking is widely considered the most perilous aspect of space missions, demanding meticulous preparation and expertise. The dangers were underscored in 2013 when Italian astronaut Luca Parmitano faced a near-fatal incident due to a malfunction in his suit.
As the private space industry expands, concerns have been raised about the potential risks of allowing wealthy individuals to partake in spacewalks without adequate training. Despite the inevitability of non-professionals engaging in spacewalks, risk and disaster analyst Ilan Kelman anticipates challenges and potential fatalities along the way. Kelman emphasizes the importance of transparency regarding the risks involved in such activities.
Isaacman and SpaceX engineer Sarah Gillis will conduct the spacewalk outside their orbiting SpaceX capsule, floating approximately 450 miles above Earth. Unlike traditional spacewalks at the International Space Station, the duo will not be venturing far from their capsule due to the absence of an airlock. The crew will test newly developed spacesuits during the roughly two-hour spacewalk, while always maintaining contact with the capsule for safety.
Amidst the excitement of this milestone, the event signifies a significant advancement in private space exploration. With SpaceX’s ambitions to reach the moon and even Mars, this inaugural private spacewalk sets a precedent for future endeavors in space. The mission represents a blend of innovation, risk-taking, and the pursuit of pushing boundaries in the realm of space exploration.