The SpaceX Polaris Dawn mission is poised to achieve a historic milestone with the first-ever spacewalk by non-professional astronauts. Launched from the Kennedy Space Center early Tuesday, the mission led by fintech billionaire Jared Isaacman has reached an unprecedented altitude of 870 miles (1,400 kilometers) — over three times higher than the International Space Station. This ambitious mission ventures into the inner Van Allen radiation belt, a zone known for its high-energy particles and challenging conditions.

As the crew prepares for their spacewalk, scheduled for 0958 GMT on Thursday with a backup on Friday, they will first undergo a "pre-breathe" process to avoid decompression sickness. This involves gradually reducing the cabin pressure to match the vacuum of space. During the spacewalk, Isaacman and SpaceX engineer Sarah Gillis will test the capabilities of SpaceX’s next-generation spacesuits, equipped with advanced features such as heads-up displays and helmet cameras. Unlike early spacewalkers, they will not be tethered but will remain attached to the spacecraft, orbiting Earth at approximately 17,500 mph.

The mission, which marks a significant step in the commercialization of space travel, involves extensive preparation. The crew has completed over two years of rigorous training, including simulations, skydiving, and diving. Besides the spacewalk, they will conduct 36 scientific experiments, including testing contact lenses with microelectronics for monitoring changes in eye pressure during spaceflight. The Polaris Dawn mission is the first of three planned under the Polaris program, furthering the collaboration between Isaacman and SpaceX.

This historic spacewalk represents a major advancement in space exploration and the push towards making space more accessible. Former NASA administrator Sean O'Keefe highlighted the significance of the mission, comparing the crew’s endeavor to the early days of aviation. As they prepare to venture into uncharted territory, the Polaris Dawn mission promises to pave the way for future private space explorations and commercial space travel.