SpaceX will launch the Fram2 mission on Monday

SpaceX has announced that it is preparing for the Fram2 mission, scheduled for Monday, March 31, 2025, at 9:46 PM (ET), launching from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Backup opportunities are available on Tuesday, April 1, at 11:20 PM, 12:53 AM, and 2:26 AM if needed.

The Falcon 9 rocket will carry the Crew Dragon spacecraft Resilience into a polar orbit, marking the first time humans will fly over Earth’s polar regions. This multi-day mission can be watched via a live webcast on SpaceX’s website, X (@SpaceX), or the X TV app, starting one hour before launch.

The mission will utilize a veteran Dragon spacecraft, previously flown on Crew-1, Inspiration4, and Polaris Dawn missions, paired with a Falcon 9 booster on its sixth flight, which will land on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship after separation.

According to SpaceX, orbiting at an altitude of 425-450 kilometers, the crew will conduct 22 research studies, including the first X-ray in space, growing mushrooms in microgravity, exercise research for muscle health, and post-landing autonomy tests without assistance. These experiments are designed to advance long-duration space exploration and human health in space.

The entirely civilian crew is led by Mission Commander Chun Wang, a Maltese cryptocurrency entrepreneur originally from China, who funded the mission and aims to inspire exploration while wearing the Maltese flag.

Jannicke Mikkelson, a Norwegian filmmaker and vehicle commander, brings experience capturing extreme environments, having worked with Sir David Attenborough. She will oversee spacecraft operations and polar imaging for her Solarmax project.

Rabia Roge, a German robotics researcher and polar scientist, will serve as vehicle pilot, applying her engineering skills and conducting educational radio broadcasts like the Fram2Ham competition.

Completing the team is Eric Philips, an Australian polar explorer and mission specialist/medical officer, who will monitor crew health and contribute experience from ski expeditions to both poles.

Named after the Norwegian ship Fram, this mission not only pushes the boundaries of spaceflight by observing polar views but also lays the groundwork for future missions to Mars and beyond through its innovative research and diverse, capable crew.