Historic. Ambitious. Innovative. Pioneering. Collaborative.
The Polaris Dawn mission rewrote the rules of space exploration and has earned its team the Space Foundation's prestigious John L. “Jack” Swigert Jr. Award for Space Exploration.
In a wide-ranging interview, Sarah Gillis, mission specialist and one of the four crew members of the Polaris Dawn mission, shares her thoughts on the honor of participating, the experience of completing the first commercial spacewalk, the future of space exploration and more.
What does this particular award mean to you?
Receiving the John L. "Jack" Swigert, Jr., Award for Space Exploration is an incredible honor—not just for me, but for the entire Polaris and SpaceX team. This mission pushed the boundaries of human spaceflight—flying farther from Earth than anyone since the Apollo missions, conducting the first commercial spacewalk to test new EVA suits, demonstrating space-based laser communications, and advancing research for future long-duration missions. Space exploration has always been a collective effort, and this award is a testament to the dedication, innovation, and teamwork that made this mission possible.
Why was the Polaris Dawn mission special?
Polaris Dawn was special because it combined groundbreaking science and technology with the human experience of space exploration. We conducted the first commercial spacewalk, tested laser communications from orbit, and carried out medical research that will help future astronauts on long-duration missions. But beyond the technical achievements, this mission was also about inspiration and connection—showing that space isn’t just for a select few, but for all of us. One of the most personal moments for me was playing the violin in microgravity with youth orchestras all around the world, a reminder that exploration isn’t just about science—it’s about bringing humanity into space. Whether through music, innovation, or scientific discovery, Polaris Dawn demonstrated what’s possible when we push boundaries and dream bigger.
What was the most challenging part of your training and how did you overcome it?
Training for the spacewalk was incredibly rigorous, requiring intense physical, mental, and technical preparation. In addition to simulation training in pressurized suits, we incorporated high-altitude mountaineering, scuba diving, and skydiving to refine our adaptability in extreme environments. One of the most valuable experiences was training at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, where we completed their Basic Freefall Parachuting Course—the only course in the country where your first jump is solo. It was a true test of executing procedures under pressure, and one of the best preparations for opening the hatch in space. Jumping out of an airplane for the first time was nerve-wracking, but overcoming those fears came down to repetition, teamwork, and trust—knowing that every drill and challenge was building the confidence we needed for the mission.
Describe how it felt to participate in the first commercial spacewalk with Jared Isaacman.
Floating outside the spacecraft was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The sheer vastness of space, the total darkness, and the faint glow of Earth’s horizon created a feeling that was both exhilarating and humbling. I’ve never felt so keenly aware of how small we are in the scale of the universe, yet at the same time, so deeply connected to the team that made the moment possible. I wasn’t just thinking about the technical aspects of the spacewalk, but about the countless engineers and trainers who prepared us for this moment. There were four of us at vacuum together, each responsible for the other’s safety, and the sense of trust and teamwork was profound. It was an experience I’ll never forget, and one that reinforced just how much spaceflight is built on the efforts of so many.
The Polaris Dawn crew accomplished many other “firsts,” including setting a record for women traveling farthest from Earth – why is this important?
This record is exciting, but it’s just one step in a much larger journey. Space exploration is still in its early days, and there are so many more firsts to achieve—the first women to go even farther, to walk on the Moon again, and eventually to set foot on Mars. Breaking records isn’t about being the last to hold them; it’s about opening the door for the next generation to push even further. I can’t wait to see who comes next and how much farther they will go!
This wasn’t just an up-and-back trip. Please tell us about some key experiments and technology from this mission and how they will contribute to future space missions.
Polaris Dawn was designed to advance both science and technology in ways that will directly impact future space missions. One of the mission’s key advancements was the development and testing of a new, more cost-effective EVA suit—an essential step toward a future where hundreds or even thousands of people live and work in space. We also tested laser-based internet connectivity aboard Dragon for the first time, successfully transmitting data between spacecraft traveling at 17,500 mph—technology that could transform deep-space communications. In addition, we conducted nearly 40 scientific experiments focused on preparing humans for long-duration spaceflight, including studies on Space Adaptation Syndrome, Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS), and other critical medical challenges astronauts will face on extended missions beyond Earth.
In the past, space exploration was done primarily by career astronauts. How does involving civilians change the landscape?
It’s a necessary evolution of space exploration. For humanity to truly live and work in space long-term, we must move beyond spaceflight being limited to a select few. The commercial space industry is paving the way for a future where space travel is not just for astronauts, but for thousands of people—scientists, engineers, medical professionals, and explorers from all backgrounds. If we envision a future where humanity lives among the stars, that future must be for all of us.
What do you hope young people take away from this mission, and what advice would you give to aspiring astronauts or space explorers?
I hope young people see that space is for everyone and feel as excited about the future of exploration as I do! Whether your passion is science, engineering, music, or medicine, there’s a place for you in space. We are living at the dawn of a new era—the second golden age of space exploration—where more people than ever can contribute to shaping humanity’s future beyond Earth. My advice? Stay curious, work hard, and don’t be afraid to pursue all your interests. Space needs more than just astronauts—it needs artists, innovators, and problem-solvers to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
How do you see the role of private space companies like SpaceX helping shape the future of space exploration and possibly making space travel more accessible to civilians?
Private space companies are rapidly changing the landscape of space exploration. They’re making missions more frequent, cost-effective, and driving new technology development. Polaris Dawn is proof that commercial crews can take on ambitious missions, contribute meaningful science, and push human spaceflight forward.
Will you be attending the Space Foundation’s 40th annual Space Symposium?
Yes! I’m looking forward to hearing from so many different parts of industry, and to being back in my home state of Colorado!
How has that organization helped advance the global space community?
The Space Foundation has been instrumental in bringing together the global space community, fostering collaboration between government agencies, private industry, and academia. By creating platforms like the Space Symposium, they help drive discussions on cutting-edge technology, policy, and the future of exploration.
What else would you like for readers to know about you, the Polaris Dawn mission, or the future of space exploration?
Space is for everyone. Polaris Dawn pushed the boundaries of what’s possible, but it’s just the beginning. The research, technology, and milestones we’re achieving today are laying the foundation for a future where more people—scientists, engineers, explorers, and dreamers—can contribute to spaceflight. The dream of exploring space is no longer limited to a select few; we are at the dawn of a new era where space is becoming more accessible, and the possibilities ahead are limitless. It’s an exciting time to be part of this journey!
Websites: https://polarisprogram.com/ | https://www.spacefoundation.org/
Facebook: @SpaceFoundation1
Instagram: @PolarisProgram | @SpaceFoundation
The John L. “Jack” Swigert Jr. Award for Space Exploration honors exceptional achievements in space exploration and discovery by a company, agency or consortium. Named for a Colorado native and Apollo 13 crew member, the award reflects the mission’s historic perseverance and ingenuity, and it celebrates the spirit of overcoming challenges in the pursuit of discovery.