Polaris Dawn Successfully Returned to Earth Early Sunday

The Crew Dragon capsule executed a “de-orbit burn” to safely re-enter, enduring temperatures up to 3,500 degrees Fahrenheit (1,900 degrees Celsius) while traveling at 17,000 miles per hour (27,000 kilometers per hour). The heat shield protected the crew, and parachutes slowed the descent.

After ocean impact, rescue teams retrieved the capsule using a “Dragon’s nest” boat for final safety checks before the crew disembarked.