SpaceX Delays Historic 'Polaris Dawn' Civilian Spacewalk Mission Due to Weather Concerns

SpaceX has again delayed its 'Polaris Dawn' mission, initially set for launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre. The delay, caused by adverse weather forecasts, follows an earlier postponement due to a helium leak. The mission will involve four civilians embarking on a historic spacewalk.

SpaceX has announced another delay for its 'Polaris Dawn' mission, aimed at launching four civilians into Earth's orbit for a historic spacewalk. Originally scheduled for August 28, the mission was postponed again due to unfavorable weather conditions off Florida's coast, where the crew capsule is expected to splash down.

SpaceX stated, 'Due to unfavorable weather forecasted in Dragon's splashdown areas off the coast of Florida, we are now standing down from tonight and tomorrow's Falcon 9 launch opportunities of Polaris Dawn.' The company plans to monitor weather forecasts closely to find the most favorable launch window.

Jared Isaacman, the mission's billionaire commander, emphasized the critical nature of the mission, stating, 'Our launch criteria are heavily constrained by forecasted splashdown weather conditions.' The mission has faced several challenges, including an earlier delay due to a helium leak in the launch pad umbilical. The 'Polaris Dawn' mission, part of a series of three planned missions, aims to achieve several milestones including testing new EVA suits and achieving the highest orbit since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972.

(With inputs from agencies.)