The Axiom‑4 mission, a joint effort from NASA, SpaceX, and Axiom Space, is now ready to send four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). Marking the fourth private commercial trip to the ISS, liftoff is set for early Wednesday. EDT from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center in Florida—with a backup window on Thursday.
SpaceX confirmed that all systems are in top shape and weather stands at 90% favourable, easing any pre‑launch jitters. The crew is a remarkable blend of talent: Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla from India, Commander Peggy Whitson from the United States, and Mission Specialists Slawosz Uznanski‑Wisniewski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. As Whitson pointed out, the multicultural team is set not only to boost scientific research but also to strengthen international ties.
Despite earlier delays due to weather challenges and technical glitches—like high winds and a liquid oxygen leak—the mission is cleared for launch. NASA has ensured the ISS is fully prepared for the crew following repairs to the Zvezda service module. Meanwhile, Houston‑based Axiom Space is already paving the way to build the first commercial space station, targeting deployment before 2030.
During the 14‑day mission, the team will undertake 60 scientific experiments covering human research, Earth observation, as well as biological and materials science.
