SpaceX has once again made history by presenting the world’s first images of Earth’s polar regions taken from aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft during the Fram2 mission. The video, released on April 2, 2025, was captured by a camera installed on the ship’s exposed nose cone, positioned approximately 430 kilometers above Earth’s surface. The footage showcases the icy expanses of the Arctic and Antarctic, as well as the observation dome window through which the crew enjoys panoramic views of Earth and space.
The Fram2 mission, which launched Monday from Florida’s Kennedy Space Center, became the first manned flight to a polar orbit—a trajectory perpendicular to the equator with a 90-degree inclination. The mission is funded by entrepreneur Chun Wan and features a crew composed of Norwegian filmmaker Janicke Mikkelsen, Australian explorer Eric Phillips, and German engineer Rabea Rogge—all of whom are embarking on their first journey into space.
Over several days in microgravity, the crew will conduct 22 scientific experiments, including studies on how space affects human health. After completing the mission, the Crew Dragon will splash down in the Pacific Ocean without external assistance—a test to demonstrate whether astronauts can independently leave the spacecraft post-flight.
