18 Things to Know About Axiom Mission 3

18 highlights from an 18-day mission on the International Space Station  

1. The Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) crew spent 18 days, about 435 hours, aboard the International Space Station (ISS) and orbited Earth approximately 346 times, covering about 9.1 million miles.

Ax-3 Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt, embarked on their awe-inspiring journey to the orbiting laboratory at 4:49 p.m. ET on Jan. 18. They flew to space aboard a SpaceX Dragon, launched by a Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

After approximately 36-hours of spaceflight, the Dragon spacecraft and Ax-3 crew docked with the International Space Station at 5:42 a.m. ET on Jan. 20, while soaring over the Pacific Ocean.

Eighteen days later, the crew undocked from the ISS at 9:20 a.m. ET on Feb. 7 to begin their homeward journey, carrying with them a lifetime of unforgettable memories and invaluable scientific data.

The Ax-3 crew aboard SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft soars over the Pacific Ocean, prior to docking with the ISS on Jan. 20.

2. Longest Axiom Space private astronaut mission

The Ax-3 mission holds the record as the longest Axiom Space Private Astronaut Mission (PAM) to the ISS. With 18 days docked to the station and a spaceflight duration of nearly 22 days. Axiom Mission 1 (Ax-1) concluded after 17 days.

These commercial missions are building the human experience, paving the way for future human spaceflight activities in low-Earth orbit (LEO).

The Ax-3 crew bonds over the views of our home planet from the cupola.

3. Ax-3 was the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the space station

In a historic venture, three countries – Italy, Türkiye, and Sweden through the European Space Agency (ESA) – united for Ax-3, with Axiom Space’s Chief Astronaut and Commander Michael López-Alegría leading the commercial mission, representing both the U.S. and Spain as a dual-citizen. The Ax-3 pilot was Italian Air Force Col. Walter Villadei, and the two mission specialists were Alper Gezeravcı of Türkiye and ESA project astronaut Marcus Wandt of Sweden. This all-European commercial astronaut mission showcased an unprecedented level of collaboration. As we unite to explore, we also celebrate the power of bridging cultural divides to advance human knowledge and prosperity.

Ax-3 astronauts proudly represent their country’s flags while aboard the Space Station.

4. Ax-3 was the first commercial spaceflight mission made up of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts

Ax-3 Pilot Walter Villadei and Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı were both government-sponsored astronauts with Villadei representing the Italian Air Force and Gezeravcı representing Türkiye. Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt represented Sweden as an ESA-sponsored project astronaut. Together, they proved that space knows no boundaries — where nations converge and unite to explore.

Ax-3 represents a ground-breaking venture that provides new pathways to access to the orbiting laboratory and perform microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach activities.

The Ax-3 crew shares a moment of camaraderie during their historic mission.

5. Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt blazed a trail as ESA’s first project astronaut  

ESA partnered with Axiom Space to send its first project astronaut to space, Marcus Wandt of Sweden. ESA’s project astronaut concept was introduced during its astronaut selection in 2022.

Project astronauts are hired as ESA staff on a fixed-term contract and have posts that are linked to a specific flight or project. These assignments can include missions of opportunity where ESA or its Member States want to send a European to space. The length of a project astronaut’s contract is directly connected to the duration of their mission.

Ax-3 Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt is seen with the Swedish flag high above Earth.

6. First Turkish astronaut went to space 

For Türkiye, Ax-3 represents a beacon of national pride as Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı etched his name in history as the first-ever Turkish astronaut. Türkiye sent the first Turkish astronaut to space as part of a larger effort to expand the country’s space exploration capabilities and establish a national human spaceflight program. As a fighter pilot with the Turkish Air Force, Gezeravcı has 15 years of flying experience on multiple aircraft and served as a captain with the Turkish Airlines for seven years. Through this mission, Gezeravcı inspired generations and fueled Türkiye’s pursuits in human spaceflight and microgravity research.

Ax-3 Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı displays the Turkish flag in the cupola to celebrate the nation’s historic mission.

7. Italy establishes role in the new era of commercial spaceflight

Italy’s involvement in Ax-3 has not only fortified its rich legacy in space exploration but also paved the way for groundbreaking scientific and technological advancements. This whole-of-country endeavor, led by the Italian Air Force, and supported by governments, institutions, and industries, is fueling Italy’s willingness to strengthen its role as a player in the burgeoning space economy.

Ax-3 provided Italy with a platform to seize opportunities presented by the commercial space industry. This has enabled Italy to accomplish significant goals in research and innovation, while continuing promoting the nation’s commitment towards safe and effective access to space.

Ax-3 Pilot Walter Villadei poses in front of the Italian flag as the country’s eighth astronaut to orbit Earth.

8. Ax-3 commander becomes the first astronaut to fly in SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft for a second time

Michael López-Alegría commanded Axiom Space’s first private astronaut mission to the ISS and Ax-3 marked his second flight aboard a SpaceX Dragon, making him the first astronaut to have this unique distinction.

Ax-3 Commander Michael López-Alegría shows excitement as the first SpaceX Dragon spacecraft “frequent flyer.”

9. Ax-3 astronauts performed 54 different experiments

The Ax-3 crewmembers performed scientific experiments and demonstrations in LEO that were of high national importance. During the mission, they successfully completed a total of 54 research activities — to include 39 conducted aboard the space station — focusing on life, physical and Earth science, human research, and technology demonstrations.

Axiom Space partnered with many scientific organizations to continue understanding the effects of spaceflight on the human body, as well as explore opportunities of applied research in space to benefit health and medical treatments on Earth.

ESA’s first project astronaut, Ax-3 Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt, completes 80 hours of microgravity research and technology demonstrations during the mission.

10. Crew conducted a total of 28 outreach and media engagements

The Ax-3 crew actively engaged with the global community through 28 media and outreach events. These interactions involved news outlets, government officials, organizations, and key stakeholders from their countries. Notably, nine of these engagements were dedicated to educating and inspiring hundreds of students worldwide.

Ax-3 and Expedition 70 crew joins for a farewell ceremony, solidifying the completion of months of preparation and weeks of important work conducted on the ISS.

11. SpaceX Dragon carrying the Ax-3 crew returned to Earth with 577 pounds of payloads and cargo

The Ax-3 crew returned to Earth, bringing with them a substantial 577 pounds of payloads and cargo. This included over 60lbs of research hardware and biological samples, each with its own potential to unlock new scientific discovery.

Among the returned payloads were ‘mini brains’ or neural organoids which could provide valuable insights into neurodegenerative diseases. Also included were samples from the crew, which will aid researchers in understanding changes in genetic and molecular activity associated with microgravity. This knowledge is crucial for understanding how the human body adapts to space.

The payloads contained ovarian cells, which could help illuminate hormonal effects on reproductive cycles. Specially designed suits that monitor astronaut physiology were also part of the haul, capable of enhancing crew health and safety during future space explorations.

In addition, plant seedlings were returned, which could reveal their stress responses, benefiting both Earth-based agriculture and potential “space farming” on Mars. Algal samples were included, with researchers now planning to investigate the genetic effects of spaceflight, which could contribute to the development of advanced environmental control systems for future spacecraft.

This diverse and significant collection of payloads promises to advance our understanding of space and its effects on various forms of life, paving the way for groundbreaking scientific and technological advancements.

The Dragon spacecraft awaits recovery in the Atlantic Ocean shortly after the Ax-3 crew’s return to Earth.

12. First time studying metastatic breast cancer organoids on ISS

Led by the Sanford Stem Cell Institute, the Ax-3 crew conducted a study on metastatic breast cancer (breast cancer that spread to other parts of the body), by investigating 3D structures called organoids — cancer organoids from patients with a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer flew for the first time on Ax-3. The research conducted during the mission showed that the organoids, which included a bone marrow component to model the immune system, tripled in size in microgravity compared to growth rates seen on the ground. The results from this project, which has previously flown on Ax-1, Ax-2, and now Ax-3, are helping to identify a cancer “kill switch” (an RNA-editing enzyme) that can prevent cancers from growing and multiplying. The suite of experiments on Axiom Space missions are testing drugs on orbit that are FDA-approved for cancer, as well as a new cancer drug that is under development.

The team plans expanded studies on upcoming Axiom Space missions to continue this important work to accelerate understanding of the cancer disease process and develop drugs that can be used to treat patients in need.

Ax-3 Pilot Walter Villadei completes important research to benefit humans on Earth.

13. ItAF conjunction warning system demonstrated on orbit for first time  

Developed by the Italian Air Force (ItAF), the ISOC system (Italian Space Operations Centre) provides an updated space object catalogue and state-of-the-art algorithms for detecting potential events such as collisions. This system was operated in space for the first time during the Ax-3 mission as a proof-of-concept demonstration, showcasing how the system could provide near real-time collision warnings with minimal Earth ground support or even autonomously. The Ax-3 crew also tested the capability to monitor solar activity and report onboard events related to space weather by means of the ISOC web portal.

Keeping Earth’s future in focus while maintaining humanity’s presence in space necessitates next-generation technology to ensure safety while orbiting approximately 254 miles above the planet.

14. Türkiye brought its agricultural endeavors to space

Advanced genetic editing techniques were applied to plants to explore how altering the plant’s stress responses could improve agricultural practices on Earth, in space, or on other terrestrial bodies.

Microalgae’s response to microgravity and hardware that can culture it in space could help develop new life support systems, food, and even fuel for future space exploration applications.

This work builds on previous microgravity investigations showing how microgravity affects the growth, movement and genetics of plants, and could provide valuable insights into plant adaptation to extreme environments and help develop more resilient crops for agriculture.

Ax-3 Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı grows future possibilities for life in LEO.

15. Research was conducted to better understand formation of proteins implicated in Alzheimer's disease

Beta amyloid proteins, implicated in Alzheimer’s Disease, were ‘activated’ for different lengths of time on orbit, allowing researchers to understand how microgravity affects the folding and aggregation of the proteins over time in ways not possible on Earth. This experiment, promoted by Italian Space Agency (ASI), could provide insight into the formation of these proteins in neurodegenerative disorders and offer new avenues for therapeutic development.

Ax-3 Pilot Walter Villadei works with the Minus Eighty-Degree Laboratory Freezer (MELFI) used to store research samples.

16. Progress made on understanding brain activity in space

During the Ax-3 mission, Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt documented his stress levels and stress recovery rate, tested his cognitive performance, and monitored his brain activity with a headcap that can record neural activity. Cortivision, the company that created the headcap, is developing innovative applications to analyze neural activity in space and on Earth using functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS).  Using the fNIRS cap aboard the ISS helps researchers better understand the impact of microgravity on brain activity and how to optimize human health and performance of astronauts on missions beyond Earth. 

Learn more about this Ax-3 study from Axiom Space Chief Scientist Dr. Lucie Low and Cortivision Chief Operating Officer Wojciech Broniatowski, here.

Ax-3 Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt wears the fNIRS cap to study his neural activity.

17. GiGi became a second-time flyer

Axiom Space and Build-A-Bear Workshop partnered for a second time to fly a furry fifth crew member alongside the Ax-3 astronauts. The teddy bear, named GiGi, took flight a second time, as the Ax-3 mission’s zero-gravity indicator wearing Axiom Space’s next-generation spacesuit. As the fifth crewmember of Ax-3, GiGi’s mission was to inspire children around the world to learn about space and consider careers in STEAM.  

Not only was Commander López-Alegría a second-time flyer in SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, so was the Ax-3 zero-g indicator, GiGi.

18. Ax-3 represented important milestones for Italy, Türkiye, and Sweden

Ax-3 represented an important milestone for Türkiye as the nation commemorated the centennial anniversary of the Turkish Republic on October 29, 2023. On March 28, 2023, the Italian Air Force celebrated its centennial anniversary as one of the oldest air forces in the world.  

Sweden celebrated five centuries as an independent nation on June 6, 2023. Marcus Wandt became the second Swedish ESA astronaut in history to fly to the space station, embodying opportunity and freedom to explore the unknown.

The Ax-3 astronauts share excitement as they prepared to embark on their journey to space.

Decoding Astronaut Numbers

Embarking on the path to becoming an astronaut requires perseverance, dedication, and a significant investment of time. It involves extensive training and preparation that can span several months to years. However, the official recognition as an astronaut and the assignment of an astronaut number is a process that varies across different organizations. Each entity has its distinct criteria and procedures for designating someone as an astronaut and assigning them a number.

NASA has its own unique criteria for designating astronauts. Over the years, NASA has selected a total of 360 people to train as astronaut candidates for its space missions. These candidates are chosen through a meticulous selection process, which includes a review of qualifications, interviews, and medical examinations. Once selected, these individuals become part of the astronaut class and are assigned their official astronaut numbers once they reach space.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also designates individuals as astronauts. To be awarded wings by the FAA, an astronaut must be employed by the company managing the launch and must have undergone training to be certified by the FAA as an astronaut. Additionally, they must have flown higher than 80 kilometers and demonstrated activities during flight that were essential to public safety or contributed to human spaceflight safety.

Transcending the Kármán line is a fundamental prerequisite for an individual to be officially designated as an astronaut. The Kármán line acts as a boundary in Earth’s atmosphere, distinguishing between space missions and aeronautical endeavors. This boundary is established by the international record-keeping entity, Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), at an altitude of 100 kilometers (around 62 miles) above the mean sea level.

Upon crossing the Kármán line, an individual is formally accorded the title of astronaut. Notably, the United States employs a slightly different criterion, conferring the astronaut title to anyone who has surpassed an 80-kilometer boundary. This discrepancy becomes increasingly significant as we step into the era of private space travel. NASA, along with other U.S. organizations such as the FAA and the U.S. Air Force, generally uses a boundary 80 kilometers above Earth’s surface to officially recognize someone as an astronaut, which is slightly lower than the Kármán line.

On Jan. 20, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría awarded his fellow crewmates with the official astronaut pin, marking the crew’s formal commencement of becoming astronauts. López-Alegría presented his crewmates with their official astronaut pins, declaring Villadei to be the 666th, Gezeravcı the 676th and Wandt the 677th to go to space. According to NASA, López-Alegría was assigned astronaut number 341 during the STS-73 mission, which launched aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia on Oct. 20, 1995. These numbers represent, in order, every person who has ever traveled to space.

Villadei became number 666 to account for his Virgin Galactic flight on Jun. 29, 2023 —this number includes the 11 new astronauts who traveled 80 kilometers above Earth’s surface between Villadei’s Virgin Galactic flight on Jun. 29, 2023, and the Ax-3 crew’s launch to the ISS on Jan. 18, 2024.

In addition, the Association of Space Explorers (ASE) is an international organization that brings together astronauts and cosmonauts from around the world, with a membership of over 400 individuals from 38 countries who have journeyed into space. A significant project of ASE is the upkeep of its comprehensive Registry of Space Travelers. This list is a record of everyone who has ever traveled to space and is continually updated as new individuals embark on space missions.

ASE has a Universal Astronaut Insignia, representing both suborbital and orbital missions. Astronauts receive a pin and are assigned a number to reflect if they completed a suborbital or orbital flight around the Earth. On the pin, the upward and downward chevrons, topped with a star of five points, signify the voyage to space and the subsequent return to our planet. The addition of a circular band denotes the accomplishment of an orbital flight.

ASE assigned Villadei with two astronaut numbers to represent his suborbital Virgin Galactic flight, number 60, and his orbital flight on Ax-3, number 609. During Ax-3, ASE assigned Gezeravcı number 610 and Wandt 611. During the STS-73 mission, López-Alegría became number 334, representing the orbital flight, in ASE’s Registry of Space Travelers.

Credit: Association of Space Explorers

ASE’s assignment of unique flight numbers to each astronaut is vital for maintaining an exhaustive and precise record of human spaceflight. It serves as an effective tool for organizing and referencing the extensive data associated with space exploration and is important for maintaining the historical record of human achievements in space.

Following the successful completion of the Ax-3 mission and their safe return to Earth, the Ax-3 crew was honored and recognized in a ceremonial pinning event. Here, they were awarded official astronaut wings, each adorned with their unique orbital flight numbers: López-Alegría (334), Villadei (609), Gezeravcı (610), and Wandt (611). This ceremony served as a fitting tribute to their remarkable journey and accomplishments during the Ax-3 mission.

The number an individual earns when becoming an astronaut serves as a testament to their hard work, dedication, scientific contributions, and pivotal role in propelling human space exploration. The Ax-3 astronauts have etched their names in the records of history, forever symbolizing a significant milestone in the era of commercial spaceflight. Their achievements will continue to inspire and illuminate the path for future missions.

Watch the Ax-3 Crew Return Press Conference

Ax-3 Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt (Left). Pilot Walter Villadei, Commander Michael López-Alegría, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı (Right)

Following their return to Earth after spending nearly 22 days in space and 18 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the astronauts of Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) shared their unique experiences and insights during a press conference on Feb. 27. During the event, the Ax-3 crew highlighted the achievements of the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the ISS.

In an historic venture, three countries — Italy, Türkiye, and Sweden with support from the European Space Agency (ESA) — united for Ax-3 as the first commercial spaceflight mission made up of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts. The Ax-3 crew includes Commander Michael López-Alegría (U.S. and Spain), Pilot Walter Villadei (Italian Air Force), and Mission Specialists Alper Gezeravcı (Türkiye) and Marcus Wandt (Sweden and ESA).  

Watch the press conference below.

MEDIA ADVISORY: Axiom Space to Hold Ax-3 Crew Press Conference Following Return from Space Station

Following their return to Earth after spending nearly 22 days in space and 18 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the astronauts of Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) are set to share their unique experiences and insights during a press conference on Feb. 27, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. CT. This event will highlight the achievements of the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the ISS.

In an historic venture, three countries — Italy, Türkiye, and Sweden through the European Space Agency (ESA) — united for Ax-3 as the first commercial spaceflight mission made up of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts. The Ax-3 crew includes Commander Michael López-Alegría (U.S. and Spain), Pilot Walter Villadei (Italian Air Force), and Mission Specialists Alper Gezeravcı (Türkiye) and Marcus Wandt (Sweden and ESA).

During the mission, the Ax-3 crew lived and worked aboard the orbiting laboratory conducting 54 different experiments and 28 media and outreach engagements. In addition, data collected on the ground before and after the mission as well as on orbit will improve understanding of human physiology on Earth and in microgravity. This human research will help prepare for longer-duration missions off the planet.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the Ax-3 crew aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the ISS from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Jan. 18 at 3:49 p.m. CT. After undocking from the ISS on Feb. 7, the Ax-3 crew safely splashed down off the coast of Florida on Feb. 9 at 7:30 a.m. CT.

AX-3 CREW RETURN PRESS CONFERENCE
Tuesday, Feb. 27 at 10:00am CT

Participants include:

• Michael López-Alegría, Ax-3 Commander, Axiom Space, U.S. and Spain

• Walter Villadei, Ax-3 Pilot, Italian Air Force

• Alper Gezeravcı, Ax-3 Mission Specialist, Türkiye

• Marcus Wandt, Ax-3 Mission Specialist, ESA/Sweden

Media must register to participate and RSVP by 12:00pm CT on Feb. 26. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the press conference.

Register here for the Ax-3 crew return press conference: https://axiomspace.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1prafxstT8WkCDk72IlREA

Ax-3 Astronauts Splashdown, Completing First All-European Commercial Astronaut Mission to ISS

A SpaceX Dragon spacecraft carrying the Ax-3 crew splashed down off the coast of Daytona, FL on Feb. 9.

After undocking from the International Space Station (ISS) on Wednesday, Feb. 7, the Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) crew safely splashed down off the coast of Florida aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft at 8:30 a.m. ET on Feb. 9, 2024. The Ax-3 crew’s return officially concludes the first all-European commercial astronaut mission and Axiom Space’s third crewed mission to the ISS.

The Ax-3 crewmembers include Commander Michael López-Alegría of the U.S. and Spain, Pilot Walter Villadei of the Italian Air Force, and Mission Specialists Alper Gezeravcı of Türkiye and Marcus Wandt of Sweden and the European Space Agency (ESA).

“The successful return of our Ax-3 astronauts signifies more than just the completion of a human spaceflight mission; it marks a pivotal moment in commercial space exploration and significant milestone for Europe’s pursuits in low-Earth orbit,” said Axiom Space CEO Michael Suffredini. “Axiom Space’s first three commercial missions to the ISS are a testament to international advancement in space, with diverse crews representing eight nations, as well as — for the first time on Ax-3 — the European Space Agency. The success of these missions is an important step along our journey toward Axiom Station, underscoring our continuous efforts to expand access to low-Earth orbit.”

Ax-3 crewmembers Marcus Wandt (left), Walter Villadei, Micheal López Alegrīa, and Alper Gezeravcı (right) wave hello after the Dragon hatch opened on Recovery boat Shannon.

During their 18-day mission docked to the ISS, the Ax-3 crew lived and worked aboard the orbiting laboratory conducting more than 30 different experiments and more than 50 outreach engagements. Human research data collected on the ground before and after the mission, as well as in flight, will improve understanding of human physiology on Earth and in microgravity.

Ax-3 demonstrates that the European community of space-faring nations are pioneers in the burgeoning commercial space industry. The crew and the governments they represent are taking bold steps into a new era of leadership in low-Earth orbit.

Ax-3 celebrates many firsts: it was the first commercial spaceflight mission comprised of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts; Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı became the first-ever Turkish astronaut; and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt was the first ESA project astronaut to fly on a commercial space mission.

Ax-3 is the third in a series of proposed Axiom Space human spaceflight missions, marking a critical milestone toward the realization of Axiom Station — the world’s first commercial space station.

Axiom Space is playing an important role in offering human spaceflight opportunities to the larger international community. These missions are enabling governments, individuals, researchers, academic institutions, and organizations across the world to conduct comprehensive scientific research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements in the unique environment of microgravity.

Axiom Space’s first three missions to the ISS included crewmembers from the U.S., Spain, Israel, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Türkiye, and Sweden, with the support of ESA. In addition, last year, Axiom Space signed an MOU with ESA and the UK Space Agency to explore future human spaceflight opportunities.

Axiom Space plans to launch its fourth mission, Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), to the ISS no earlier than October 2024 from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. 

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #22

Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt are homebound! 

After approximately 435 hours, 18 days, and 288 orbits around Earth covering around 7.6 million miles, the Ax-3 astronauts’ time aboard the space station came to an end. Yesterday, the crew undocked from the International Space Station at 9:20 a.m. ET to begin their journey home, carrying with them a lifetime of unforgettable memories and invaluable scientific data.

After a 47-hour journey back to Earth, the astronauts are targeted to splashdown off the coast of Florida tomorrow around 8:30 a.m. ET, with coverage beginning at 7:25 a.m. ET. Updates and details on splashdown can be found here.

Ax-3 celebrates many firsts: it was the first commercial spaceflight mission comprised of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts; Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı became the first-ever Turkish astronaut; and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt was the first ESA project astronaut to fly on a commercial space mission.

Ax-3 is the third in a series of proposed Axiom Space human spaceflight missions, marking a critical milestone toward the realization of Axiom Station — the world’s first commercial space station.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #21

After 18 days docked to the International Space Station (ISS), completing about 288 orbits around the Earth, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt are homebound!

Aboard a SpaceX Dragon, the Ax-3 crew undocked from the ISS early this morning at 9:20 a.m. ET to begin their 47-hour journey back to Earth. The astronauts are targeted to splashdown off the coast of Florida on Feb. 9 around 8:30 a.m. ET, with coverage beginning at 7:25 a.m. ET. Updates and details on splashdown can be found here.

During the mission, the Ax-3 astronauts successfully completed a total of 56 research activities — to include 39 conducted aboard the space station — focusing on life, physical and Earth science, as well as human research and technology demonstrations. The crew also conducted 28 media and outreach engagements with news outlets, government officials, organizations, and important stakeholders from their countries. Of those, nine engagements focused on educating and inspiring hundreds of students from around the world.

Prior to departing from the ISS, MLA participated in a final mission update and answered questions from Axiom Space employees and young children eager to hear about the crew’s experience aboard the space station and journey in space. Click here to watch.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #20

Crew Status

Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt have been on the International Space Station (ISS) for 17 full days. 

Ax-3 is targeted to undock from the ISS no earlier than Wednesday, Feb. 7 at 9:05 a.m. ET pending weather at the splashdown locations. Updates on crew return coverage can be found here. 

As the Ax-3 crew waits to depart from the space station, they dedicated time to recording videos for outreach engagements and captured payload imagery. They also gathered more data for their research projects. 

Research

Villadei completed the Italian Space Operations Centre (ISOC) technology demonstration. The ISOC system provides an updated space object catalogue with state-of-the-art algorithms to detect space-related events (such as collisions). The ISOC was operated in space for the first time during the Ax-3 mission.

In addition, Villadei prepared Barilla Ready Made Pasta and then completed a final questionnaire to develop a broader range of tasty foods in space for future space explorers.

Wandt took photos in the cupola for the Thor-Davis project, which investigates lightning activity at the top of thunderstorm clouds. He completed another Orbital Architecture assessment with the fNIRS headcap to document his cognitive performance, stress levels, and stress recovery rate. And he also wore the Bone Health Actibelt Beltware throughout the day and downlinked data to study protracted bone loss after short-duration spaceflight. 

Outreach

Villadei recorded an outreach video discussing the importance of space exploration and Italy's role in space. Villadei and Gezeravcı also recorded videos on how to brush your teeth in space.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #19

Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt have now been on the International Space Station (ISS) for 16 full days. 

Ax-3 is now targeted to undock from the ISS no earlier than Tuesday, February 6 at 8:05 a.m. CT. Mission managers from Axiom Space, SpaceX, and NASA are continuing to monitor weather conditions at the splashdown site off the coast of Florida. Updates on crew return coverage can be found here.  

MLA transferred the emergency equipment out of Dragon and placed it back into the ISS. He also transferred the POLAR refrigerator, Microgravity Experiment Research Locker Incubator (MERLIN) cold stowage, and Nitrogen Oxygen Recharge System (NORS) tank into Dragon to prepare for undocking.

Villadei, Gezeravcı, and Wandt transferred cargo into Dragon to complete packing for undocking. 

MLA supported Gezeravcı in filming an additional video for a documentary, which will highlight the first Turkish astronaut. 

Villadei and Gezeravcı also recorded a video on daily activities aboard the space station.

Finally, after the mission, Villadei and MLA will have completed the Italian Air Force-led Endothelial Function experiment. The crew trained on-ground and pre-flight to gather ultrasound acquisitions and blood draws, which will be compared with those taken before launch and after re-entry. This will add a new layer of knowledge about the interaction between humans and the microgravity environment. It will offer a better understanding of the physiology of endothelium dysfunction, as a preclinical marker of future cardiovascular disease and as an indicator of artery health in long-duration space missions.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #18

Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt have now been on the International Space Station (ISS) for 15 full days. The crew had another off-duty day as they await departure from the space station. The astronauts had conferences with their family and some personal time to capture on-orbit imagery. 

Ax-3 is now targeted to undock from the ISS no earlier than Tuesday, February 6, at 8:05 a.m. CT. Mission managers from Axiom Space, SpaceX, and NASA are continuing to monitor weather conditions at the splashdown site off the coast of Florida. Updates on crew return coverage can be found here.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #17

Crew Status

Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) crew Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt have now been on the International Space Station (ISS) for 14 full days. Unfavorable weather prevented the crew’s undocking and return to Earth earlier today, so they enjoyed some time off duty.

Ax-3 is now targeted to undock from the ISS no earlier than Tuesday, Feb. 6. Mission managers from Axiom Space, SpaceX, and NASA are continuing to monitor weather conditions at the splashdown site off the coast of Florida. Updates on crew return coverage can be found here when dates and times are confirmed.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #16

Crew Status

Today, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt completed their thirteenth full day (flight day 16) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Highlights of the Day

The Ax-3 crew is preparing for their departure from the ISS and focused on readying the Dragon for return to Earth, as well as tending to housekeeping activities to clean up after their two-week stay. As for packing, the crew is collecting payloads, hardware, and personal items. The crew also completed a departure conference with Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX on upcoming dynamic operations for undocking. 

The Ax-3 astronauts are scheduled to undock no earlier than Feb. 3 at 6:05 a.m. ET from the forward-facing port of the station’s Harmony module to begin the journey home in a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and splashdown off the coast of Florida. Mission managers from Axiom Space, SpaceX, and NASA are monitoring weather conditions at the splashdown site off the coast of Florida. Click here for updates on crew return coverage.

Research

MLA transferred emergency equipment from the Dragon back into the ISS. He also uninstalled the Polar and Microgravity Experiment Research Locker Incubator (MERLIN) from the ISS Express Rack and installed them in Dragon. 

Wandt completed the final Orbital Architecture assessments with the fNIRS headcap to document his cognitive performance, stress levels, and stress recovery rate.

The Ax-3 crew successfully completed more than 30 research projects during their time on the ISS, to include the first time studying metastatic breast cancer organoids and first demonstration of conjunction analysis software for tracking space debris from the ISS.

Media

The Ax-3 crew was joined by the NASA Expedition 70 crew for a farewell ceremony. Watch the event below.

MEDIA ADVISORY: Watch Coverage of Ax-3 Crew Departure from Space Station

Updated: February 7, 2023, 1:27 p.m. ET

Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX will provide live joint coverage of the undocking and departure of the Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) astronauts from the International Space Station (ISS) before the crew returns to Earth.

Coverage of the Ax-3 return will include three separate segments — hatch closure, undocking, and splashdown. All segments will be available at AxiomSpace.com.  

Mission teams will monitor weather at the possible splashdown sites prior to undocking to ensure conditions are acceptable for a safe recovery of the spacecraft and Ax-3 astronauts.

Ax-3 crewmembers Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, and Mission Specialists Alper Gezeravcı and Marcus Wandt will have spent 18 days docked to the ISS and 20 total days of spaceflight once they return to Earth. During their time aboard the space station, the Ax-3 crew conducted a diverse array of over 30 experiments, spanning various fields of biology and technology, and participated in over 50 outreach engagements.

Undocking and departure coverage for Ax-3 is as follows (all times Eastern and subject to change based on operations).

Wednesday, Feb. 7
7:00 a.m. ET – Coverage for hatch closure begins (Axiom Space, NASA)
7:25 a.m. ET – Hatch closure
9:00 a.m. ET – Undocking coverage begins (Axiom Space, NASA, SpaceX)
9:20 a.m. ET – Undocking

Friday, Feb. 9
7:25 a.m. ET – Coverage for splashdown begins (Axiom Space, SpaceX)
8:30 a.m. ET – Splashdown

Follow along for mission updates with #Ax3 on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and on our website.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #15

Crew Status

Today, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt completed their 12th full day (flight day 15) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Highlights of the Day

The Ax-3 astronauts are starting to prepare for their departure from the space station. The crew had a conference call with the Axiom Space Cargo team to discuss their upcoming pack activities for departure. Mission managers from Axiom Space, SpaceX, and NASA are monitoring weather conditions at the splashdown site off the coast of Florida.

Research

MLA conducted experiment transfer from the Minus Eighty-Degree Laboratory Freezer (MELFI), Glacier, and Space Automated Bioproduct Lab (SABL) to Polars stowage facilities for Ax-3 return. MLA also supported Villadei in experiment transfer between the SABL and the Microgravity Experiment Research Locker Incubator (MERLIN) cold stowage.

Villadei and Gezeravcı completed the first Ax-3 Dragon packing activities to prepare for undocking.

MLA, Villadei, and Gezeravcı completed the final audio samples for the Vokalkord experiment.

Wandt completed the AstroBit experiment, which contains sensors for acceleration, magnetic field strength, and light. This ESA-led activity is an educational project that helps students understand physics, as well as learn more about computer programming, digital skills development, and critical thinking. 

Outreach

Wandt recorded an outreach video on how food is prepared, and Gezeravcı recorded a video on electronics in space.

Gezeravcı participated in another Q&A with students from schools affected by the recent earthquakes in Türkiye.

Media

Tomorrow at 8:50 a.m. CT, the Ax-3 crew will be joined by the NASA Expedition 70 crew for a farewell ceremony. The event will be broadcast live on Axiomspace.com and NASA TV.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #14

Crew Status

Today, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt completed their 11th full day (flight day 14) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Highlights of the Day

The Ax-3 crew is making final rounds to complete their research and science experiments and preparing payloads for return to Earth. They also spent time conducting their last outreach engagements.

Research

MLA assisted the NASA Expedition 70 crew with packing hardware equipment, which will return with the Ax-3 crew in the Dragon spacecraft.

MLA supported Gezeravcı with the second session of the microgravity effects on metal particles dynamics in fluids (gMETAL) project, which investigates how the lack of gravity impacts mixing solid particles in a gas (two-phase mixture formation) within a contained environment. 

In addition, MLA helped Gezeravcı with a video recording showing meal preparation and consumption.

Today was Villadei’s turn to provide an audio sample for the Vokalkord experiment, which uses an artificial intelligence system to detect over 70 types of disease by analyzing respiratory, speaking, and cough sounds. 

Villadei inserted Beta Amyloid Aggregation samples into the Minus Eighty-Degree Laboratory Freezer for preservation. This project investigates the aggregation of amyloid beta (Aβ) proteins, which are implicated in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease).

Villadei also executed the Italian Space Operations Centre (ISOC) technology demonstration to perform an ISS space debris conjunction analysis and verify potential space weather alerts. The ISOC system provides an updated space object catalogue with state-of-the-art algorithms to detect space-related events (such as collisions). The ISOC was operated in space for the first time during the Ax-3 mission.

Gezeravcı took photographs to track the progress of algae samples and then placed them into the Glacier for cryogenic preservation. This project, called Algalspace, investigates the survival and growth of algae in space. 

Wandt spent the day working on CIMON to test the Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) system functionalities and chat capabilities of this free-flying AI- powered crew companion. 

Wandt completed another Orbital Architecture assessment with the fNIRS headcap to document his cognitive performance, stress levels, and stress recovery rate. 

Wandt also completed another virtual reality on board training session.

Outreach

Gezeravcı participated in a Q&A with kindergarten and nursery school children from Türkiye’s capital, Ankara.

Villadei spoke to Italian high school teachers and students, research and development representatives, and other authorities during an outreach event. He highlighted Ax-3 mission experiments, daily activities aboard the space station, and recognized stakeholders in relation to the experiments.

Tomorrow, Gezeravcı will participate in another Q&A with students from schools affected by the recent earthquake in Türkiye.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #13

Crew Status

Today, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt completed their 10th full day (flight day 13) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Highlights of the Day

The Ax-3 crew completed multiple outreach engagements and took images to support commercial activities. The crew also completed a variety of ISS National Lab-sponsored projects.

Research

Villadei wore the Smart FlightSuit 2 (SFS2) again to test the comfort and behavior of the suit's fabrics in space, function of the inbuilt sensors, and utility of the suit in microgravity. MLA took images to document Villadei’s use of the suit.

Villadei prepared Barilla Ready Made Pasta and then completed a questionnaire to develop a broader range of tasty foods in space for future space explorers.

Gezeravcı inserted the Extremophyte CRISPR plant samples from yesterday’s harvest into the Minus Eighty-Degree Laboratory Freezer for cryogenic preservation.

MLA supported Gezeravcı in removing 12 microalgae samples from the experiment cube to prepare for their return to Earth. The data generated from the UzMan experiment will be used to advance the development of microalgal life support systems for future space missions.

Gezeravcı provided another audio sample for the Vokalkord experiment, which uses an artificial intelligence system to detect over 70 types of disease by analyzing respiratory, speaking, and cough sounds.

Wandt completed one of the many Orbital Architecture assessments with the fNIRS headcap to document his cognitive performance, stress levels, and stress recovery rate. Cortivision, the company that created the fNIRS headcap, is is developing innovative applications to analyze brain waves in space and on Earth. Learn more about this Ax-3 study from Axiom Space Chief Scientist Dr. Lucie Low and Cortivision Chief Operating Officer Wojciech Broniatowski, here.

Wandt also inserted the Furnace Calibration Cartridge into the Material Science Laboratory, which is used for basic materials research in microgravity (e.g., metals, alloys, polymers, semiconductors, ceramics, crystals, and glasses). 

Outreach

Villadei participated in a live outreach engagement with representatives from the Italian Space Agency (ASI) along with many teachers and students in Italy. During the event, he highlighted the ASI-led experiments and research activities on the ISS and participated in a Q&A. Watch the event, here.

Villadei recorded a video to explain and showcase how microgravity affects the shape of water and stability of spinning objects in space.

Gezeravcı also did another outreach event with high school students in Türkiye.

Tomorrow, Gezeravcı will participate in a Q&A with kindergarten and nursery school children from Türkiye’s capital, Ankara.

Villadei will speak to Italian high school teachers and students, research and development representatives, and other authorities during an outreach event. He will highlight Ax-3 mission experiments, daily activities aboard the space station, and will recognize stakeholders in relation to the experiments.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #12

Crew Status

Today, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt completed their ninth full day (flight day 12) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Highlights of the Day

The Ax-3 crew is in the second half of their mission on the ISS and are starting to wrap up and complete many of the research projects and experiments they have been charged to execute. The astronauts are also actively engaging with schools, organizations, and media located in their regions.

Research

As part of the Extremophyte Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) project, Gezeravcı worked in the Life Sciences Glovebox to harvest and preserve plant samples for ground return. He also took photographs of algae samples for the Algalspace study and then inserted them into the Glacier freezer for cryogenic preservation.

Gezeravcı provided audio samples for the Vokalkord experiment, which uses an artificial intelligence system to detect over 70 types of disease by analyzing respiratory, speaking, and cough sounds. 

Wandt completed another Orbital Architecture assessment with the fNIRS headcap to document his cognitive performance, stress levels, and stress recovery rate.

Outreach

Today, MLA reunited and spoke with his Ax-1 crewmates Larry Connor, Eytan Stibbe, and Mark Pathy. 

Villadei conducted an outreach event with children and doctors from a pediatric hospital in Italy. He discussed life on the ISS and answered questions from the participants.

Tomorrow at 3:25 a.m. CT, Villadei will participate in a live outreach engagement with representatives from the Italian Space Agency (ASI) along with teachers and students in Italy. During the event, he will highlight the ASI-led experiments and research activities on the ISS and participate in a Q&A. Watch the event live, here.

 Gezeravcı will do another outreach event with high school students in Türkiye.

Media

The Ax-3 crew participated in an on-orbit science briefing with Axiom Space Chief Scientist Dr. Lucie Low. The crew provided an update on the microgravity research, science experiments, and technology demonstrations they have been conducting while on the space station. Watch the event, here.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #11

Crew Status

Today, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt completed their eighth full day (flight day 11) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Highlights of the Day

The Ax-3 crew remained busy conducting research, media events, and outreach engagements.

Research

MLA, Villadei, and Gezeravcı provided audio samples for the Vokalkordexperiment, which uses an artificial intelligence system to detect over 70 types of disease by analyzing respiratory, speaking, and cough sounds. Testing the tool in microgravity will allow researchers to continue validating the system as an easy-to-use telemedicine option that could be used in the future to monitor the health of astronauts on future missions. 

Villadei continued conducting technology demonstrations with the Smart Flight Suit 2 (SFS2) to test the comfort and behavior of the suit's fabrics in space, function of the inbuilt sensors, and utility of the suit in microgravity. 

Villadei also completed microscope imaging of cancer cell cultures for the Cancer in LEO project, which studies tumor organoids in microgravity with the goal to identify early warning signs of cancer for prediction and prevention of disease.

Gezeravcı continued his daily documentation of plant samples for the Extremophyte Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) project and took photographs of algae samples for the Algalspacestudy. 

Wandt activated an artificial intelligence powered, free-flying companion, called CIMON, which can fly independently through the ISS to support crew as they perform tasks and can respond to verbal commands.

Outreach

MLA participated in an outreach event with Star Trek actress Melissa Navia to discuss the importance of space travel and developments in commercial space. Watch the event, here.

Gezeravcı participated in an interview with Türkiye’s global news agency, Turkish Radio and Television Corporation/Anadolu Agency. 

Tomorrow, MLA will reunite and speak with his Ax-1 crewmates Larry Connor, Eytan Stibbe, and Mark Pathy. 

Villadei will conduct an outreach event with children and doctors from a pediatric hospital in Italy. He will discuss life on the ISS and answer questions from the children.

Media

Tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. CT, the Ax-3 crew will participate in an on-orbit science briefing with Axiom Space Chief Scientist Dr. Lucie Low. The crew will provide an update on the microgravity research, science experiments, and technology demonstrations they have been conducting while on the space station. Watch the event live, here.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #10

Crew Status

Today, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt completed their seventh full day (flight day 10) on the International Space Station (ISS). 

Highlights of the Day

Today was the Ax-3 crew’s one and only off-duty day aboard the ISS. However, the crew had to complete a few activities to ensure they are staying on track with their busy timeline full of research, media events, and outreach engagements. The astronauts also spent time catching up with their family members. 

Research

Villadei conducted a second technology demonstration with the Smart Flight Suit 2 (SFS2) to test the comfort and behavior of the suit's fabrics in space, function of the inbuilt sensors, and utility of the suit in microgravity. 

Gezeravcı continued documentation of plant samples for the Extremophyte Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) project, which studies how the stress responses of plants in microgravity could translate to improved agricultural practices on Earth, in space, or on other terrestrial bodies for future space exploration missions.

In addition, Gezeravcı took photographs to track the progress of algae samples. This project, called Algalspace, investigates the survival and growth of algae in space. Information gathered from the ISS will help make a valuable contribution to studies on sustainable bioregenerative life support systems for future space missions.

Wandt completed another Orbital Architecture assessment with the fNIRS headcap to document his cognitive performance, stress levels, and stress recovery rate.

Wandt took a second round of photos in the cupola for the Thor-Davis project, which investigates lightning activity at the top of thunderstorm clouds. The proximity of these images taken from the ISS, versus weather satellites in higher orbits, helps investigators collect more accurate altitude-related measurements to study the relationship between electrical and convective thunderstorm activity and the effect of lightning on atmospheric greenhouse gas composition.

Outreach

MLA talked to his alma mater, the U.S. Naval Academy. During the event, MLA participated in a Q&A with midshipmen. Watch the event here.

 Gezeravcı participated in a Q&A with students from schools affected by the recent earthquake in Hatay, Türkiye.

Media

MLA and Villadei recently joined together for the second webcast mission update to talk about their day-to-day life aboard the space station, as they are now halfway through the mission. Watch the mission update below.

Tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. CT, MLA will participate in an outreach event with Star Trek actor Melissa Navia to discuss the importance of space travel and developments in commercial space. Watch the event live, here.

Tomorrow, Gezeravcı will participate in an interview with Türkiye’s global news agency, Turkish Radio and Television Corporation/Anadolu Agency.                                                                             

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #9

Crew Status

Today, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt completed their sixth full day (flight day nine) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Highlights of the Day

The crew is now halfway through their mission and spent time today speaking with their local and regional media outlets.

Research

Villadei prepared Barilla Ready Made Pasta and then completed a questionnaire on the preparation, aroma, taste, texture, and the overall eating experience. This activity is part of an effort to develop a broader range of tasty foods in space for future space explorers.

Wandt completed another Orbital Architecture cognitive assessment with the fNIRS headcap. 

Wandt also took photos of thunderstorm clouds in the cupola with the Thor-Davis camera, which can take images of lightning at up to 100,000 frames per second, giving accurate pictures of what happens during a lightning strike. This ESA-sponsored project is investigating lightning activity at the top of thunderstorm clouds that extend into the stratosphere to better understand the role of thunderstorms on atmosphere dynamics and chemistry.

Outreach

MLA supported Villadei in recording a video tour of the ISS for educational outreach.

Gezeravcı participated in a fireside chat with the Türkiye Minister of Industry and Technology along with members of the delegation. Watch the event here.

Gezeravcı also recorded a vlog to document his experiences and what he has learned and observed on the space station, which will be later used for outreach engagements. 

Tomorrow at 11:45 a.m. CT, MLA will talk to his alma mater, the U.S. Naval Academy. During the event, MLA will participate in a Q&A with midshipmen. Watch the event live, here.

Gezeravcı will participate in a Q&A with students from schools affected by the recent earthquake in Hatay, Türkiye.

Media

Villadei did an interview with Italian media outlet RAI1 to discuss the importance of scientific research, space exploration, education, and what it means to represent Italy on the Ax-3 mission. 

Wandt participated in an interview with one of Sweden's largest TV channels, SVT. During the event, Wandt discussed the experiments he is conducting on the ISS and his experience as an Ax-3 astronaut.