Axiom Space has announced the crew for its fourth private mission to the International Space Station, known as Ax-4. The crew officially began their training at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, on August 5.

This mission will feature a diverse team, including a pilot from India and mission specialists from Poland and Hungary. Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut, will return as the mission commander for her second Axiom Space mission.

“I’m excited to lead my second commercial spaceflight with Axiom Space,” Whitson said. “Our mission brings together a culturally diverse crew, which not only furthers scientific research but also promotes international cooperation.”

Whitson highlighted the progress of previous missions, noting that Axiom Mission 1 was the first all-private mission to the space station, Mission 2 launched the first Saudi female astronaut, and Mission 3 included the first Turkish and ESA astronauts on a commercial flight. “With Ax-4, we continue to push boundaries, incorporating more nations into low-Earth orbit and expanding our reach into space,” she added.

Mission Specialist Sławosz Uznański from Poland will join Ax-4, supported by the European Space Agency (ESA), the Polish Ministry of Economic Development and Technology (MRiT), and the Polish Space Agency (POLSA). Uznański is the second “project astronaut” to fly to space, following Marcus Wandt’s participation in Ax-3. ESA defines project astronauts as those employed on fixed-term contracts specifically for a flight or project.

“ESA is committed to supporting its Member States through commercial space access. With Ax-4, we are collaborating with Poland to advance technological progress and showcase Poland’s capabilities in space exploration,” said Daniel Neuenschwander, ESA’s Director of Human and Robotic Exploration.

The mission also marks a significant milestone for India and Poland, as it celebrates over 40 years since their last spaceflights. Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian astronaut, flew to space in 1984. In a recent statement, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) confirmed that Shukla would serve as the prime mission pilot for Ax-4, with Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair as the backup.

“Training for the Gaganyatris will begin in August 2024. They will conduct scientific research and technology demonstrations on the ISS, as well as engage in space outreach activities,” ISRO said. “This mission will enhance India’s human space program and strengthen cooperation between ISRO and NASA.”

 Axiom Space, Ax-4 Mission, International Space Station, Private Spaceflight, NASA, Peggy Whitson, ESA, Sławosz Uznański, Indian Space Research Organization, Rakesh Sharma, Space Exploration

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