SpaceX's Fram2 Mission Launches First Crewed Polar Orbit

SpaceX's Fram2 mission successfully launched on April 1, 2025, marking a historic first for human spaceflight to orbit directly over the North and South Poles. The crew, comprised of four civilian astronauts, includes Chun Wang, Jannicke Mikkelsen, Rabea Rogge, and Eric Philips, each bringing unique expertise from diverse fields such as cryptocurrency, filmmaking, and polar exploration. The mission aims to conduct over 20 scientific experiments, including studies on motion sickness led by Torin Clark from the University of Colorado Boulder. Mikkelsen plans to document the journey using high-resolution cameras, emphasizing the mission's blend of storytelling and scientific inquiry. The Fram2 mission not only highlights advancements in commercial space tourism but also opens new avenues for polar exploration and Earth observation. This mission underscores the potential for private space endeavors to contribute to scientific research and inspire future explorations.