In a momentous event that unfolded today at 3:49 p.m., Axiom’s Ax-3 embarked on a significant space exploration mission. The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the Ax-3 crew aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. For those interested in watching highlights of this historic event, video of the lift off is available in the video player at the top of the page.
The Ax-3 mission holds the distinction of being the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Comprising Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, and Mission Specialists Alper Gezeravcı and Marcus Wandt, this diverse crew will spend up to 14 days aboard the ISS, conducting a comprehensive mission involving microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements.
Representing their respective nations in low-Earth orbit (LEO), the Ax-3 crew will perform scientific experiments and demonstrations of high national importance. The significance of their work extends beyond borders, contributing to our understanding of human physiology both on Earth and in orbit.
Axiom Space’s commitment to scientific advancement is reflected in the more than 30 experiments planned for the Ax-3 mission. The data collected before, during, and after the mission will play a crucial role in advancing scientific understanding, facilitating industrial advancements, and developing technologies for the progress of humanity.
Axiom Space is headquartered here in Space City.
For those seeking a deeper insight into the Ax-3 mission, additional information can be found at www.axiomspace.com/ax3.