The Intelligence from The Economist Come on out, the vacuum’s fine: SpaceX
Sep 13, 2024
Oliver Morton, the Planetary Affairs Editor for The Economist, dives into the groundbreaking Polaris Dawn mission by SpaceX. He discusses the first spacewalk by private citizens, showcasing the advancements in commercial space travel. Morton humorously touches on the practicality of snacks in zero gravity, like the new Doritos variant designed for space. He also explores the untamed realm of gene editing, addressing high costs and the future of accessible healthcare, making profound connections between innovations in space and everyday life.
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SpaceX's Private Spacewalk
- SpaceX conducted its first private spacewalk, going further from Earth than anyone in 60 years.
- Sarah Gillis, a mission control operator, tested the spacesuits she helped design.
Ideology of Private Spaceflight
- This mission is driven by the ideology that spaceflight should be led by private individuals, not governments.
- It's seen as an expansion of human experience, fulfilling a destiny beyond Earth.
Isaacman's Missions and Space Doritos
- Billionaire Jared Isaacman contracted SpaceX for three missions; this is the first.
- The mission includes testing laser links for Starlink satellites and introduces space-friendly Doritos.