SpaceX’s First All-Civilian Flight Makes History As It Takes To The Skies
Image via SpaceX
Earlier this week, as SpaceX’s space crew prepared to set off on its three-day trip around the Earth, it left behind an Easter egg for fans in the form of a hidden code.
Now, Jared Isaacman, Hayley Arceneaux, Sian Proctor, and Chris Sembroski have blasted off into space onboard the SpaceX Crew Dragon. The Inspiration4 mission is the world’s first all-civilian space flight, with the crew only comprised private citizens—zero professional astronauts.
According to CNET, loud cheering could be heard during the livestream as the crew took off, celebrating different milestones as the rocket headed into orbit. Approximately 10 minutes after launch, the Falcon 9 rocket returned, landing on a drone ship in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
In a bit of an “aww” moment, the camera captured a golden retriever plushie floating around the cockpit. It was a mascot for the St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, as the mission hopes to raise US$200 million in donations.
“Few have come before, and many are about to follow,” Isaacman said poignantly upon contacting SpaceX’s mission control after the launch.
“The door’s open now and it’s pretty incredible.”
Check out the full livestream of the Inspiration4 launch below.
Liftoff of @Inspiration4X! Go Falcon 9! Go Dragon! pic.twitter.com/NhRXkD4IWg
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) September 16, 2021
Main engine cutoff and stage separation confirmed. Second stage engine burn underway pic.twitter.com/ihYA8ELUVA
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) September 16, 2021
Dragon has separated from Falcon 9’s second stage pic.twitter.com/pOfgJ9LsvE
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) September 16, 2021
[via CNET, cover image via SpaceX]
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