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SpaceX Rocket Launch: Cryptocurrency magnate Chun Wang and his Fram2 crew experienced a unique double feature this week, witnessing a SpaceX launch just hours before their own voyage to space. This article details the remarkable event.
Fram2 Crew Witnesses Starlink Launch Before Polar Orbit Mission
Chun Wang, a cryptocurrency billionaire, spearheaded the Fram2 mission, embarking on a groundbreaking spaceflight on Monday night, March 31st. Their SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket propelled them into orbit for the first-ever astronaut flight traversing Earth’s poles. Prior to their evening launch from Pad 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Fram2 astronauts were treated to a captivating spectacle: another SpaceX rocket deploying Starlink satellites.
“Rocket Launchception” – Astronauts’ Unique Perspective
“We’re gonna watch a rocket launch while en route to a rocket launch,” Wang announced on social media as the team journeyed to their Cape Canaveral launch site in Tesla vehicles. One vehicle sported a license plate reading “Fram2Go,” adding a touch of levity to the momentous occasion. Wang also shared a video capturing their vantage point of the SpaceX Starlink launch as it ascended above the Clint Hurdle baseball field at Merritt Island High School, originating from the nearby Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
Dual SpaceX Missions on Display
Earlier that Monday afternoon, SpaceX successfully launched 28 Starlink internet satellites utilizing another Falcon 9 rocket. Approximately six hours later, Wang and his team were preparing for their own cosmic journey, getting situated inside the Crew Dragon Resilience spacecraft poised atop their Falcon 9 rocket.
Consistent with his social media engagement, Wang also shared a video documenting their preparations.
“Side hatch secured. We are cleared for launch,” Wang posted on X, signaling their readiness.
Fram2 Mission Details: Private Polar Space Expedition
The Fram2 mission, a privately funded space endeavor by Wang, is dedicated to exploring Earth’s polar regions and executing scientific experiments. The crew consists of mission commander Jannicke Mikkelsen from Norway, pilot Rabea Rogge of Germany, and Australian Eric Phillips, serving as Fram2’s medical officer. Their mission is scheduled to last up to five days in orbit before they return to Earth.