Axiom Space Chosen by NASA for a New Private Space Mission to ISS

The International Space Station’s Harmony module hosted SpaceX’s Dragon Freedom spacecraft, which transported four astronauts of Axiom Mission-2, including Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot John Shoffner, Mission Specialists Ali Alqarni and Rayyanah Barnawi, arriving on May 22, 2023. Photo credit: NASA.

A fourth private astronaut mission to the ISS by NASA and Axiom Space has been confirmed, with the launch planned for August 2024. This move is integral to NASA’s goal of shifting low Earth orbit operations to commercial bodies.

The agreement for the fourth private astronaut mission to the ISS between NASA and Axiom Space is set, with a launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida scheduled for no earlier than August 2024.

Phil McAlister, director of commercial space at NASA Headquarters, expressed satisfaction with the progress in converting low Earth orbit operations from mainly government-led to a field where NASA is one of several clients. He emphasized the role of private astronaut missions in facilitating the transition towards commercial platforms for continuous U.S. presence in low Earth orbit.

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Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4)

A 14-day stay at the ISS is anticipated for Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), with the exact launch date to be coordinated by NASA and Axiom Space, depending on spacecraft traffic and other factors. They will manage the in-orbit activities, working with ISS crew members and ground control.

Michael Suffredini, CEO and president of Axiom Space, expressed excitement for the fourth mission, emphasizing the importance of these missions in building the groundwork for the first commercial space station, Axiom Station, and broadening commercial space access and know-how in microgravity living and working.

Crew Selection and Training

Four potential crew members for the Ax-4 mission will be presented by Axiom Space to NASA and international partners for approval. The prime crew will be confirmed once approved.

Axiom Space will coordinate with NASA, international partners, and SpaceX for Ax-4 crew training. SpaceX has been hired by Axiom Space to provide transport to and from the space station and to train the private astronauts for the Dragon spacecraft.

NASA Services and Agreements

Both a mission-specific order and a reimbursable Space Act Agreement are utilized by Axiom Space to acquire NASA’s services.

Through the order, Axiom Space will receive crew supplies, cargo delivery, storage, and daily in-orbit resources from NASA. NASA may also obtain specific capabilities from Axiom Space, such as returning scientific samples and other cargo. Training and facility usage at NASA’s centers will be enabled through Space Act Agreements. SpaceX also has a reimbursable agreement with NASA Kennedy for launch services.

Previous and Upcoming Missions

In March, NASA chose Axiom Space for the third private astronaut mission, with the launch aimed for no earlier than January 2024. The selection process was based on the provider’s ability to successfully complete the mission and its alignment with NASA’s low Earth orbit commercialization goals.

Looking Forward

With over 22 years of continuous U.S. human presence in low Earth orbit, NASA aims to create a marketplace where they are one of many clients, with the private sector taking the lead. This approach allows for cost-effective services, letting NASA concentrate on the Artemis missions to the Moon and Mars, while continuing to use low Earth orbit for training and testing for deep space missions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about private astronaut mission

What is the announcement from NASA and Axiom Space about?

NASA and Axiom Space have officially confirmed the launch of a fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS) by August 2024.

What is the purpose of this private astronaut mission?

This mission is part of NASA’s strategy to shift low Earth orbit operations to commercial entities, allowing NASA to focus on deep space missions like Artemis to the Moon and Mars.

How is Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) planned?

Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is expected to involve a 14-day stay docked to the ISS. The exact launch date will be determined based on spacecraft traffic and other considerations, in coordination with NASA and Axiom Space mission planners.

How are the private astronauts selected and trained?

Axiom Space will propose four crew members for Ax-4, subject to approval by NASA and international partners. These crew members will then undergo training with NASA, international partners, and SpaceX to prepare for their mission aboard the ISS.

What services does Axiom Space receive from NASA?

Axiom Space obtains NASA services through both a mission-specific order and a reimbursable Space Act Agreement. The order covers crew supplies, cargo delivery, storage, and in-orbit resources. Axiom Space also provides capabilities like returning scientific samples and private astronaut mission commander’s time for NASA-related tasks.

How does this mission contribute to commercialization efforts?

NASA’s collaboration with Axiom Space helps transition low Earth orbit activities from government-led to commercial operations, expanding commercial space activities and access for individuals and nations worldwide.

How are previous and upcoming missions related to this announcement?

This announcement follows NASA’s selection of Axiom Space for the third private astronaut mission. The missions were chosen based on the provider’s ability to execute the mission successfully and align with NASA’s goals of low Earth orbit commercialization.

What is NASA’s long-term vision for low Earth orbit?

NASA aims to create a low Earth orbit marketplace with multiple clients, where the private sector takes the lead. This approach enables cost-effective services and allows NASA to concentrate on ambitious missions like Artemis and future endeavors beyond Earth’s orbit.