posted 08-03-2023 03:08 PM               

NASA Selects Axiom Space for Fourth Private Astronaut Mission to International Space Station

NASA and Axiom Space have signed a mission order for the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), marking the Houston-based company and space industry leader as the only full-service mission provider to carry out end-to-end commercial astronaut missions to the orbiting laboratory.

Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is targeted to launch no earlier than August 2024 from the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida and is expected to spend up to 14 days docked to the space station. The Ax-4 crew members will train with NASA, international partners, and SpaceX for their flight. Axiom Space has contracted SpaceX as launch provider for transportation to and from the space station and to familiarize the private astronauts with systems, procedures, and emergency preparedness for the Dragon spacecraft.

"Our Axiom Space team is looking forward to a fourth mission to the ISS," said Michael Suffredini, CEO and president of Axiom Space. "Each mission allows us to build on the foundation we have set for the world's first commercial space station, Axiom Station, preparing our teams and orbital platform to succeed ISS operations in low-Earth orbit (LEO). These missions are instrumental in expanding commercial space activities and access to space for individuals and nations around the world, as well as developing the knowledge and experience needed to normalize living and working in microgravity."

The first mission order for a private astronaut mission to the ISS was signed by NASA and Axiom Space in May 2021. Axiom Mission 1 (Ax-1), which launched on April 8, 2022, successfully demonstrated Axiom Space's ability to integrate with the ISS program and processes and conduct meaningful research in LEO. In August 2022, a second NASA mission order was signed with Axiom Space for Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2). Ax-2 successfully launched on May 21, 2023, to include the first female to command a commercial human spaceflight mission, the first Saudi astronauts to live and work on the ISS, and the first Saudi female astronaut to go to space. And just a few months ago, in March 2023, NASA and Axiom Space signed a mission order for a third private astronaut mission, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3), which is targeted to launch no earlier than January 2024 from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Axiom Space's broad range of human spaceflight services include access to training facilities and instructors, hardware and safety certification, and operational on-orbit management. Candidates for flight complete Axiom Space's rigorous training curriculum over many months in preparation to live and conduct meaningful work in space. The expert team at Axiom Space is helping nations and organizations build human spaceflight programs, develop astronaut selection processes, and expand the community of space explorers to a larger and more diverse representation of humanity.

posted 08-04-2024 08:05 PM               

Axiom Space Announces Agreement to Send Indian Astronaut to International Space Station on Ax-4 Mission

Axiom Space signed a historic spaceflight agreement (SFA) with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) of the Republic of India, announcing the intent to fly an Indian astronaut to the International Space Station on Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4).

The signing of this SFA represents a pivotal moment for both the United States and India, exemplifying a shared commitment to expanding collaboration and capabilities, fueling invention and innovation, and inspiring a new generation of space explorers. It is a strategic partnership, symbolizing the spirit of international cooperation in low-Earth orbit (LEO) and the advancement of commercial space activities.

"India's journey through space is filled with incredible achievements," said Matt Ondler, president of Axiom Space. "From the successful Chandrayaan missions to the ambitious Gaganyaan project, India has become a beacon of inspiration in the global space community.

"As space becomes a key arena for commercial and scientific efforts," Ondler added. "India, with its rich history in space exploration and clear leadership in technology and entrepreneurship, will be crucial in shaping the domain and advancing humanity's presence in space. We look forward to working together with ISRO on this next mission."

The Indian astronaut selected to be a part of the Ax-4 crew will focus on scientific research and educational outreach while on orbit.

"Signing of the Space Flight Agreement is a significant milestone toward the goal of mounting a joint ISRO-NASA effort to the International Space Station, as envisioned in the India-USA Joint Statement during the Official State visit of Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi to the United States in June 2023," according to an ISRO statement. "This joint mission will strengthen human spaceflight cooperation between ISRO and NASA and provide opportunities for the Indian scientific community to undertake cutting-edge research experiments on board the ISS."

Ken Bowersox, associate administrator of NASA's Space Operations Mission Directorate, stated, "Through NASA's efforts, we are opening space to more nations, more people, and more opportunities than ever before and look forward to welcoming the first ISRO astronaut to the International Space Station. The space station continues to serve as humanity's home in microgravity where we are advancing human spaceflight, enabling science, and improving life on Earth for the benefit of humanity."

The name of the Indian astronaut assigned to Ax-4 will be announced upon the astronaut's arrival in Houston for initial training.

As Axiom Space continues to lead the way in commercial space exploration, its partnership with India underscores the company's ongoing efforts to expand access to space for countries, institutions, industries, and individuals with innovative ideas fueling an economy beyond Earth.

posted 08-05-2024 07:57 AM               

Axiom Mission 4 to ISS will include India, Poland, Hungary

Astronaut Peggy Whitson to be mission commander

Axiom Space officially announced today that it is partnering with India, through the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Poland, with European Space Agency (ESA) support, and Hungary to send three national astronauts to the space station on Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), the company's next commercial human spaceflight mission to the orbiting laboratory.

The Ax-4 crewmembers arrived in Houston today to begin training with Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX.

The crew assigned to Ax-4 includes Commander Peggy Whitson, Mission Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India, Mission Specialist Sławosz Uznański of ESA/Poland, and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary. The assigned crewmembers are pending approval to fly to the International Space Station by the Multilateral Crew Operations Panel (MCOP). MCOP decisions are made in consensus by representatives from all five-space station international partners: NASA, ESA, Roscosmos, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency.

"Ax-4 represents Axiom Space's continued efforts to build opportunity for countries to research, innovate, test, and engage with people around the world while in low-Earth orbit," said Michael Suffredini, CEO of Axiom Space. "This mission broadens horizons for nations with ambitious goals of advancing scientific, technological, and economic pursuits. Our collaboration with ESA for a second time and the inclusion of Hungary and India underscores Axiom Space's ability to cultivate global partners, expand the scope of exploration, and open up new avenues to grow a global space economy."

The mission will place significant emphasis on scientific research, technology demonstrations, and the commercialization of space. Additionally, the mission aims to foster cooperation by sharing knowledge, resources, and opportunities with our partners, solidifying these nations as leaders within the growing space community.

"I look forward to commanding my second commercial human spaceflight mission with Axiom Space," said Peggy Whitson, Ax-4 commander. "With a culturally diverse crew, we are not only advancing scientific knowledge but also fostering international collaboration. Our previous missions set the stage. Axiom Mission 1 was the first all-private mission to the space station, Axiom Mission 2 launched the first Saudi female to space, and Axiom Mission 3 included both the first Turkish astronaut and first ESA astronaut to fly on a commercial space mission. Now, with Ax-4, we ascend even higher, bringing even more nations to low-Earth orbit and expanding humanity's reach among the stars."

Ax-4 will launch to the orbiting laboratory aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft from Florida, and the crew is expected to spend up to 14 days on the space station.

Of note, Ax-4 will be the second Axiom Space mission to include an ESA astronaut. Marcus Wandt became ESA's first-ever project astronaut on Ax-3 and the second ESA astronaut of Swedish nationality to travel to the space station. During Ax-4, Axiom Space will continue to build on its partnership with ESA by sending a Polish astronaut to space for the first time in more than 40 years.

Additionally, in July 2022, Axiom Space and the Hungarian government's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to further the Hungarian to Orbit (HUNOR) program, Hungary's astronaut program, and advance opportunities in space research and technology development. Building on that MOU, in Sept. 2023, Axiom Space signed a spaceflight framework agreement (SFA) with the Ministry to facilitate the launch of a Hungarian astronaut.

Most recently, in July, Axiom Space signed an SFA with ISRO. This is a significant milestone toward India's goal of mounting a joint ISRO-NASA effort on board the International Space Station.

posted 01-29-2025 04:14 PM               

NASA, Partners to Welcome Fourth Axiom Space Mission to Space Station

NASA and its international partners have approved the crew for Axiom Space's fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, launching from the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida no earlier than spring 2025.

Above: The Axiom Mission 4, or Ax-4, crew will launch aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the International Space Station from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida no earlier than Spring 2025. From left to right: Tibor Kapu of Hungary, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, and ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland. (SpaceX)

Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot. The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

"I am excited to see continued interest and dedication for the private astronaut missions aboard the International Space Station," said Dana Weigel, manager of NASA's International Space Station Program at the agency's Johnson Space Center in Houston. "As NASA looks toward the future of low Earth orbit, private astronaut missions help pave the way and expand access to the unique microgravity environment."

The Axiom Mission 4, or Ax-4, crew will launch aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and travel to the space station. Once docked, the private astronauts plan to spend up to 14 days aboard the orbiting laboratory, conducting a mission comprised of science, outreach, and commercial activities. The mission will send the first ISRO astronaut to the station as part of a joint effort between NASA and the Indian space agency. The private mission also carries the first astronauts from Poland and Hungary to stay aboard the space station.

"Working with the talented and diverse Ax-4 crew has been a deeply rewarding experience," said Whitson. "Witnessing their selfless dedication and commitment to expanding horizons and creating opportunities for their nations in space exploration is truly remarkable. Each crew member brings unique strengths and perspectives, making our mission not just a scientific endeavor, but a testament to human ingenuity and teamwork. The importance of our mission is about pushing the limits of what we can achieve together and inspiring future generations to dream bigger and reach farther."

posted 04-03-2025 09:19 AM               

Ax-4 to Set Record for Most Research Activities Conducted During Axiom Space Mission

Axiom Space revealed today new details about the scientific research and technology demonstrations set to fly on Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) to the International Space Station no earlier than May 2025.

The Ax-4 research complement includes around 60 scientific studies and activities representing 31 countries, including the U.S., India, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and nations across Europe. This will be the most research and science-related activities conducted on an Axiom Space mission aboard the International Space Station to date, underscoring the mission's global significance and collaborative nature to advance microgravity research in low-Earth orbit (LEO).

Unique to this mission is a strong focus on scientific portfolios led by countries represented on the Ax-4 mission, including the U.S., India, Poland in partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA), and Hungary. The mission is set to enhance in-country participation in these countries by engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders. This effort aims to showcase the value and opportunities in microgravity research, fostering international collaboration and scientific advancement. The studies will contribute to the global knowledge base in human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences, showcasing the space research capabilities of the crew's home nations.

In addition, Axiom Space is teaming up with research organizations and academic institutions to delve deeper into the effects of spaceflight on the human body and to explore how space-based research can improve health and medical treatments on Earth. Ax-4 emphasizes the importance of commercial and academic partnerships, as Axiom Space leads the creation of a global research community and sustainable economic ecosystem in LEO. This mission also lays the groundwork for Axiom Station, the first commercial space station, which will offer a permanent platform for research, manufacturing, and human spaceflight.

The Ax-4 crewmembers are Commander Peggy Whitson of the U.S., Mission Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India, Mission Specialist Sławosz Uznański- Wiśniewski of ESA/Poland, and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch the Ax-4 crew aboard a Dragon spacecraft to the space station no earlier than May 2025 in Florida.

Ax-4 Mission Research Overview 

Axiom Space

Axiom Space is leading a diverse array of research initiatives to advance scientific understanding of microgravity's effects and better understand astronaut health and performance during space missions. These projects cover a wide range of topics, including medical support for diabetic astronauts, the effects of microgravity on the brain and body, and the collection of vital health data. The research also delves into the impact of space travel on joints, blood flow, stem cells, cancer growth, and radiation exposure. By addressing these critical areas, Axiom Space aims to enhance the overall well-being and readiness of astronauts for future missions and translate findings into benefits for Earth-based research.

Research studies will focus on:

• Researching how to support astronauts with insulin-dependent diabetes during short-duration missions in microgravity.
  
• Examining microgravity's impact on the brain and cognitive risks.
  
• Collecting physiological and psychological data from astronauts to understand how humans adapt to space.
  
• Studying the effects of short spaceflights on joints and blood flow.
  
• Assessing astronaut 'readiness' using a wearable device, iPhone software, and AWS Snowcone analytics.
  
• Developing infrastructure for wearable device data processing during the Ax-4 mission.
  
• Investigating cancer growth in space, focusing on triple-negative breast cancer.
  
• Understanding the effects on blood stem cells during spaceflight.

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)

The ISRO-led research, in collaboration with NASA and ESA, focuses on advancing microgravity research aboard the International Space Station to enhance our understanding of biological processes in microgravity and develop strategies for long-duration space missions. The scientific experiments are set to drive significant advancements in space science and technology while also inspiring the next generation of Indian scientists and engineers. Ax-4 strengthens India's presence in space and promotes the country's dedication to contributing to global scientific progress.

Research studies will focus on:

• Investigating physical and cognitive impact of computer screens in microgravity.
  
• Studying growth, metabolism, and genetics of three microalgae strains in microgravity vs. ground.
  
• Comparing growth, cellular responses, and biochemistry of two cyanobacteria strains in microgravity.
  
• Identifying pathways of skeletal muscle dysfunction in microgravity and exploring therapies.
  
• Investigating the impacts of spaceflight on germination and growth of crop seeds.
  
• Examining spaceflight impacts on six crop seed varieties.
  
• Identifying molecular mechanisms of resilience in extreme environments.

European Space Agency (ESA)/Poland Research

Supported by the Polish government and ESA, Ax-4 features comprehensive scientific research and technology demonstrations. The research focuses on various experiments the Polish space industry proposed and developed under ESA's guidance. These experiments aim to advance our understanding of space-related challenges and contribute to future space exploration efforts. The Ax-4 mission represents a significant step forward for Poland's space ambitions and highlights the importance of international collaboration in advancing space science.

Research studies will focus on:

• Studying astronauts' mental and behavioral health on the International Space Station.
  
• Monitoring bone loss upon re-entry after space missions.
  
• Examining bone markers to predict recovery behavior.
  
• Evaluating neurofeedback for stress reduction and performance.
  
• Investigating gut microbiome changes during short-term space stays.
  
• Examining immune cell adaptation to microgravity.
  
• Monitoring astronauts' soft tissue health during missions.
  
• Exploring muscle electrical stimulation to protect muscle mass in microgravity.
  
• Using brain imaging technology to develop a human-computer interface in microgravity.
  
• Testing methods to extend pharmaceutical shelf-life in space.
  
• Testing an acoustic monitor on the International Space Station.
  
• Advancing onboard data processing for space and Earth applications.
  
• Measuring space radiation levels with a monitor in the Columbus module.
  
• Assessing six wearable biomonitor devices for function and stability in space.
  
• Investigating red microalgae for long-duration space missions.
  
• Investigating a tardigrade gene in yeast for microgravity protection.

Hugarian to Orbit (HUNOR) Program Research

The HUNOR research on the Ax-4 mission encompasses a range of scientific experiments designed to enhance our knowledge of space and its impacts on humans and materials. These studies aim to provide valuable insights for space exploration and potential Earth-based applications.

Research studies will focus on:

• Examining how space conditions affect human bacterial, viral, and fungal microbiomes.
  
• Investigating microgravity's effect on cognitive function and motor skills.
  
• Demonstrating the application of nanofibrous eye inserts in microgravity.
  
• Examining low-melting point metal behavior for next-generation ion-jet propulsion systems.
  
• Monitoring crew radiation exposure and environmental conditions with a personal dosimetry device.
  
• Mimicking planet-scale atmospheric dynamics with a novel way of spinning a water sphere in microgravity.
  
• Investigating how fruit flies fight radiation-induced DNA damage with enhanced biochemical processes.
  
• Studying plant germination, microgreen production, and leaf development.
  
• Examining microfluidic drug testing chips in space.
  
• Studying associative learning and visual processing in space.
  
• Examining changes in cardiovascular and balancing systems.
  
• Understanding cerebral blood flow adaptation to spaceflight.
  
• Validating clothing heat transfer simulation in different gravity environments for improved astronaut thermal comfort.
  
• Testing precise position tracking with standard inertial sensors in space.
  
• Exploring spaceflight effects on 3D printed materials.
  
• Studying upper atmospheric thunderstorms.
  
• Demonstrating gravitational curiosities during a joint physics class with students from across Hungary.

Find more information on Ax-4 research here.