SpaceX spacewalk: US violates 50-year-old space law?

SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission is breaking new ground by sending private civilians on a spacewalk for the first time on Thursday. Led by billionaire Jared Isaacman, the crew is embarking on a five-day mission further from Earth than any crewed voyage since 1972.

This historic mission challenges the norms of government-controlled spacewalks, with SpaceX aiming to test its new suits and capabilities rapidly. While the undertaking raises questions about the US government’s adherence to the Outer Space Treaty from 1967, it also highlights the evolving role of private companies in space exploration.

Experts debate the legality and supervision of such private missions under the treaty. However, with the current moratorium on FAA regulations for commercial human spaceflight, companies like SpaceX operate with minimal oversight. The future of private space exploration may depend on how nations navigate the treaty’s principles while fostering innovation.

A Cold War treaty faces a new test

Despite differing opinions on the treaty’s application, the space industry continues to push boundaries while balancing safety and international obligations. As the Polaris Dawn mission unfolds, the legacy of the Outer Space Treaty hangs in the balance as private entities carve their path in the final frontier.