SpaceX Launched First All-Civilian Orbit Crew Into Space

SpaceX launched its first all-civilian orbit crew launched into space on Wednesday.

Billionaire businessman Jared Isaacman funded the ride for an undisclosed amount and through a fundraising campaign for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and a national competition, filled the other three seats. Chris Sembroski, Sian Proctor, and Hayley Arceneaux joined Isaacman onboard the aircraft. The main goal of the spaceflight was to raise $200 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The Inspiration4 took off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. The three-day mission reached a 360-mile altitude — the highest since 1966’s Gemini 10 and 11 missions.

“During their multi-day journey, the Inspiration 4x crew will conduct scientific research designed to advance human health on Earth and during future long-duration spaceflights,” SpaceX tweeted.

Pics from liftoff of the @Inspiration4x mission pic.twitter.com/Vt8EACSLZK

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) September 16, 2021