Axiom Space Partners with Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine on National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engines

Axiom Space has partnered with the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, recipient of an inaugural U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Engines grant. The NSF Engines grant allows user-inspired technical challenges to be addressed in collaboration with partnered institutions, including Axiom Space, through Innovation, Translation, and Education Cores (ITECs), each focused on a broad area of unmet need.

The ITECs will focus on Development and Manufacturing, Biomaterials, Cell Biology, In-Space Manufacturing, and Workforce Development and will be located with Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM), North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (N.C. A&T), Winston-Salem State University (WSSU), the RegenMed Development Organization (ReMDO), and Forsyth Technical Community College (FTCC), respectively. In partnership with Axiom Space the In-Space ITEC will explore a new frontier for tissue and organ regeneration in microgravity, adding significant forward-thinking engagement and workforce development through the In-Space ITEC.

“This partnership with Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, a globally recognized leader in tissue engineering, to leverage the benefits of microgravity provides an opportunity for breakthrough discoveries benefiting all of humanity,” said Jana Stoudemire, Director of In-Space Manufacturing, Axiom Space. “This NSF Engines grant further expands our existing NASA InSpace Production Applications (InSPA) collaboration and presence in the RegMed Hub. We are thrilled to work together with the WFIRM and ReMDO teams to elevate and transform the Winston-Salem region into a world-leading hub of innovation for regenerative medicine and in-space biomanufacturing.”  

“We are excited to work with Axiom Space in the formation of a regenerative medicine engine that provides access to Axiom Station, the world’s first commercial space station and successor to the International Space Station,” said Dr. Anthony Atala, Director of WFIRM. “Our partnership with Axiom Space is centered on the development of use inspired products, training and commercialization, thereby expanding job opportunities and economic development to our region that will support a future robust commercial space economy in low-Earth orbit.”

NSF Engines award provides $15 million for the first 2 years and up to $160 million for 10 years. “The inaugural NSF Engines awards demonstrate our enduring commitment to create opportunity everywhere and enable innovation anywhere,” said NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan. “Through these NSF Engines, NSF aims to expand the frontiers of technology and innovation and spur economic growth across the nation through unprecedented investments in people and partnerships. NSF Engines hold significant promise to elevate and transform entire geographic regions into world-leading hubs of innovation.”

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ABOUT WAKE FOREST INSTITUTE FOR REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine is recognized as an international leader in translating scientific discovery into clinical therapies, with many world firsts, including the development and implantation of the first engineered organ in a patient. Over 500 people at the institute, the largest in the world, work on more than 40 different tissues and organs. A number of the basic principles of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine were first developed at the institute. WFIRM researchers have successfully engineered replacement tissues and organs in all four categories – flat structures, tubular tissues, hollow organs and solid organs – and 16 different applications of cell/tissue therapy technologies, such as skin, urethras, cartilage, bladders, muscle, kidney, and vaginal organs, have been successfully used in human patients. The institute, which is part of Wake Forest University School of Medicine, is located in the Innovation Quarter in downtown Winston-Salem, NC, and is driven by the urgent needs of patients. The institute is making a global difference in regenerative medicine through collaborations with over 500 entities and institutions worldwide, through its government, academic and industry partnerships, its start-up entities, and through major initiatives in breakthrough technologies, such as tissue engineering, cell therapies, diagnostics, drug discovery, biomanufacturing, nanotechnology, gene editing and 3D printing.

ABOUT AXIOM SPACE

Axiom Space is building for beyond, guided by the vision of a thriving home in space that benefits every human, everywhere. The leading provider of human spaceflight services and developer of human-rated space infrastructure, Axiom Space operates end-to-end missions to the International Space Station today while developing its successor, Axiom Station – the world’s first commercial space station in low-Earth orbit, which will sustain human growth off the planet and bring untold benefits back home. For more information about Axiom Space, visit www.axiomspace.com.  

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.

Ax-2 Mission to Expand Microgravity Research to Combat Human Disease

First time bioprinted solid tissue constructs to be sent to the International Space Station and induced pluripotent stem cells to be manufactured in space 

Credit: WFIRM

Microgravity allows researchers to study the behavior of cells and tissues in a unique environment, which can lead to new insights and medical breakthroughs in combating disease. For the Ax-2 mission, Axiom Space is working with the University of Connecticut, Eascra Biotech, Cedars-Sinai, and the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) to learn more about how microgravity affects stem cells and thick tissue constructs. Their research will provide valuable insights into detecting diseases and developing therapies for people on Earth. Among the experiments flying on Ax-2 are bioengineered liver and kidney tissue constructs, which will assess the impact of microgravity on the vascularization of thick tissues, which could help create a solution for patients in need of organ transplants. 

Space Tissue and Regeneration 
In collaboration with WFIRM and the RegenMed Development Organization (ReMDO) 

During the Ax-2 mission, WFIRM will make history when sending the first bioprinted solid tissue constructs to the International Space Station (ISS). The Ax-2 crew will evaluate the vascularization of thick tissue in microgravity and the effectiveness of this platform technology for other tissue types. 

Previous research on ISS using cells in low-Earth orbit included both 2D and small 3D cultures. The prior experiments have shown that cells exposed to microgravity undergo both genetic and functional changes, including increased motility and proliferation. Studying these larger tissue constructs during Ax-2 will help inform the researchers not only with regards to how the liver and kidney cells respond, but also as to how an endothelial coating of blood vessel cells will react to the microgravity environment.  

To prepare for launch, liver and kidney tissue constructs will be bioprinted independently. To assist in the maturation of the tissues, samples will be placed on flow, continuously exposed to perfused media for five days prior to launch. They will then be placed in transparent cell-culture containers that provide a closed system in which to grow the cells while in orbit. 

While the research is taking place on the ISS, WFIRM research associates will be monitoring a duplicate set of samples on Earth as ground control and will undergo the same processes as those on the ISS.  

While the primary focus for the team is on creating tissue constructs that can be used as a bridge to transplantation, these tissue constructs can also be used as a model system for human disease and testing potential new therapies, as well as for studying health effects and developing potential countermeasures for astronauts who spend a significant amount of time in space. 

DNA Nano Therapeutics  
In collaboration with University of Connecticut, Eascra Biotech, and Advanced Solutions Life Sciences (ASLS) 

Arthritis currently affects one in four adults in the US, and this number is rapidly increasing. To address this problem, Eascra Biotech has collaborated with Dr. Yupeng Chen and his team at the University of Connecticut to develop a DNA-inspired Janus Base nanomaterial (JBN). This versatile material can be easily assembled to produce a range of products with multiple therapeutic applications, including a new type of nanotube (JBNt), a room temperature-stable mRNA therapeutic delivery platform (JBNp), and an injectable matrix (JBNm) for cartilage repair and regeneration. Early studies on Earth have shown promising results for both JBNp and JBNm. 

Dr. Chen and the Eascra team plan to conduct two experiments on Ax2, focusing on the formation of the foundational nanotube (JBNt) and the injectable matrix (JBNm). JBNp is planned to be produced at a later date after the Ax-2 mission has concluded aboard ISS using a handheld sonicator, and UV-vis spectrophotometer developed by Advanced Solutions Life Sciences. Validation of tools and initial manufacturing parameters in the precursor missions will inform future expanded in-space manufacturing missions. UV spectrophotometer data used initially for in-situ analysis during proof-of-concept studies, can also be incorporated into future in-line production measurement. 

As InSPA awardees, they aim to accelerate their market entry and contribute to the development of the low Earth orbit (LEO) economy. Leveraging microgravity for rapid product optimization and greater uniformity, they hope to identify compelling science and business use cases that demonstrate the efficacy of the space environment for commercial purposes. Their goal is to establish strong working partnerships with both commercial entities and government agencies, and they intend to collaborate with Axiom Space and other partners to develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for in-space product development and production manufacturing of commercial-grade nanomaterials for future therapeutic applications on Earth. 

This is the team's first mission, and Axiom Space is contributing to the NASA-funded In-Space Production Applications project through the Ax-2 mission. 

Credit: University of Connecticut 

Stellar Stem Cells  
In collaboration with Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute at Cedars-Sinai 

During Ax-2, the crew will conduct research to explore whether microgravity can make it easier and more efficient to produce large batches of stem cells. This is the first of a series of missions supported by Axiom Space, for the first time, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) will be manufactured in space by astronauts. 

The Ax-2 crew will grow the stem cells on the ISS to see whether microgravity has any impact on the way the cells divide, as well as their ability to take up DNA. Subsequent missions will conduct the full iPSC production process.

An induced pluripotent stem cell is a very powerful type of cell that has been reprogrammed from an adult cell to go back in time to a powerful state of “pluripotency,” in which the cell can be turned into nearly any cell type found in the human body. Once in this state, it can then be developed into models of disease and used for tailored treatments. 

However, one of the main issues with producing iPSCs on Earth may involve gravity-induced tension, which makes it hard for cells to expand and grow. In a low-gravity environment, this stress may no longer present a barrier, potentially making it easier for stem cells to multiply faster. 

Credit: Cedars-Sinai 

Update: As of June 13th 2023, the Saudi Space Commission (SSC) is now known as the Saudi Space Agency (SSA)

Ax-2 Mission to Expand Robust Scientific Research, Biomanufacturing, Technology Demonstrations in Low-Earth Orbit

Applications for future space habitats, cancer research, and biomanufacturing are among investigations headed to the International Space Station on second all-private astronaut mission to the orbiting laboratory

Axiom Space, a leader in human spaceflight and architect of the world’s first commercial space station, announced today further details on the groundbreaking research planned for the upcoming Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2) mission to the International Space Station (ISS) – including initial studies focused on developing future therapeutic applications, studying immune dysfunction in tumor organoid models that can help to predict and prevent cancer, understanding how commercial spaceflight crew members adapt to microgravity, and exploring how weather modification works in low-gravity conditions.

Axiom Space’s crew of four astronauts will conduct more than 20 different experiments while aboard the space station. Data collected in flight will impact understanding of human physiology on Earth and on orbit, as well as establish the utility of novel technologies that could be used for future human spaceflight pursuits and improving life on Earth.  

Unique to this mission, there is a strong focus on projects developing in-space biomanufacturing applications. Four experiments flying on Ax-2 are part of larger partnerships between Axiom Space and academic and industrial partners to perform proof-of-concept studies for in-space biomanufacturing, which has the potential to address current roadblocks in regenerative medicine, drug development, and technology advancement.

"It is exciting to see the wide range of important research that will be conducted on this mission and to be taking the first steps in developing future in-space manufacturing applications for some of our biomedical products," said Christian Maender, executive vice president of in-space solutions at Axiom Space. "We are pleased to have the opportunity with our private astronaut missions to advance this important work as we build a future commercial space economy. 

Axiom Space’s Chief Scientist Dr. Lucie Low echoed Maender’s excitement for the science on the mission, “We’re delighted to support these scientific and research and manufacturing projects on the Ax-2 mission, as well as provide opportunities to conduct research in microgravity for partner countries and nations with limited access.” said Low. “The projects flying on this mission will advance the use of low-Earth orbit as a manufacturing platform for technologies that could advance human health on Earth, add to our understanding of health in space, and demonstrate how to best operate safely and effectively on orbit.”

The Ax-2 crew members are Commander Peggy Whitson and Pilot John Shoffner, both from the United States, and Mission Specialists Ali Alqarni and Rayyanah Barnawi representing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch the Ax-2 crew aboard a Dragon spacecraft to the International Space Station no earlier than spring 2023 from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. 

Select Ax-2 Mission Investigations 

The following are some of the investigations and demonstrations flying on Ax-2, more information will be available on axiomspace/ax2-research.

DNA nano therapeutics in collaboration with University of Connecticut, Eascra Biotech, and Advanced Solutions Life Sciences (ASLS)

DNA inspired Janus-based nanomaterials are biologically inspired nanotubes that can be used for therapeutic mRNA delivery or other therapeutics at room temperature, and as a first-in-kind injectable scaffold for cartilage repair. This project will leverage microgravity to optimize the assembly of DNA-based nanomaterials for multiple therapeutic uses and ultimately develop standards for in-space manufacturing of nanomaterials for a wide range of therapeutic applications. Axiom Space is contributing to the NASA-funded In-Space Production Applications project through the Ax-2 mission.

Stellar stem cells in collaboration with Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute at Cedars-Sinai

This project seeks insights into the impact of microgravity on producing stem cells and stem cell-derived products in space. Using space to evaluate the steps used in terrestrial manufacturing to reprogram skin cells (fibroblasts) into stem cells capable of producing a variety of tissue types (heart, brain, and blood), could support regenerative medicine uses on Earth.  Axiom Space is contributing to the NASA-funded In-Space Production Applications project through the Ax-2 mission.

Cancer in low-Earth orbit in collaboration with Sanford Stem Cell Institute at UC San Diego

As a follow-on project flown on Ax-1 (Modeling Tumor Organoids), this effort will expand the tumor organoid model to include triple-negative breast cancer cells in order to study immune dysfunction and drug challenge with countermeasures for ADAR1-fueled cancer proliferation and immune evasion: fedratinib and rebecsinib, for the further development of stem cell models that can help predict and prevent cancer. These models can be tools for detection of and therapies for pre-cancer, cancer, and a variety of other diseases on Earth. This project is part of the expanded Integrated Space Stem Cell Orbital Research (ISSCOR) collaboration between the Sanford Stem Cell Institute, JM Foundation, and Axiom Space.

Space tissue and regeneration in collaboration with Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine and the RegenMed Development Organization (ReMDO)

Bioengineered liver and kidney tissue constructs will be sent to space to assess the impact of microgravity on vascularization of thick tissues. If successful, this platform technology and approach could lead to the in-space bioengineering of ‘building blocks’ of tissue that can serve as a bridge to transplants in patients awaiting a limited supply of donor organs. This project is part of the Axiom Space collaboration with Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine and the ReMDO to develop an In-Space Biomanufacturing Hub for regenerative medicine. 

Space hematopoietic stem cell aging in collaboration with Sanford Stem Cell Institute at UC San Diego

In this project, the activity of DNA and RNA-editing enzymes involved in mutations that may be related to development of immune dysfunction-related disease states and cancer will be evaluated by analyzing blood samples taken from the crew before, during, and after spaceflight. This will help better understand changes in editing activity of these enzymes in blood stem cells due to spaceflight. This project is part of the expanded Integrated Space Stem Cell Orbital Reseach (ISSCOR) collaboration between the Sanford Stem Cell Institute, JM Foundation, and Axiom Space.

mRNA response and stability in Space in collaboration with King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Saudi Space Commission (SSC)   

The set of experiments investigates the inflammatory response of human immune cells in microgravity, specifically the changes in mRNA decay, a process that can turn inflammation off. Moreover, response to therapy is mimicked by utilizing the same cellular model. The crew will take RNA samples for analysis on the ground, where the investigators will monitor RNA expression patterns, and excitedly thousands of mRNA half-lives will be measured. Results could contribute to a better understanding of space health and uncover biomarkers or potential therapies for inflammatory diseases in both Space and Earth. The project is funded by SSC, where one of their astronauts will perform the experiments at the ISS.

Nebula human research biosamples and biodata in collaboration with Nebula Research & Development Company, Keele University, and Weill Cornell Medicine

This portfolio of projects will look at how humans adapt and respond to spaceflight to better understand human physiology in microgravity, which will contribute to our understanding of how to keep humans healthy in space. Projects utilizing novel neuroscience tools include measuring blood flow to the brain and the brain’s electrical activity, assessing intracranial pressure by non-invasive assessment of the pupil of the eye, and monitoring changes in the optic nerve over time. Improved monitoring of neurological health may help make spaceflight safer in the future and allow for the development of rapid, non-invasive monitoring, as well as early interventions and the development of countermeasures. Blood and bio-sample specimens will also be taken to examine multi-omic biomarkers related to spaceflight and also to map changes in the length, structure, and epigenetics of chromosomes and telomeres. This project is in collaboration with the Saudi Space Commission.

TRISH essential measures

The Translational Research Institute for Space Health (TRISH) is developing a battery of tests to be completed by the crew that will inform how commercial spaceflight crew members adapt to microgravity and how countermeasures can be developed to keep crew healthy and enable peak performance during missions. This battery of tests will include physical assessments, questionnaires, taking biological samples from the crew, and wearing devices that sense and measure physiological responses to spaceflight. The tests will be analyzed to determine how quickly and how well crew adapt to moving in space, study how the eye changes during spaceflight, how well the crew can perform cognitively demanding tasks, and what changes the body undergoes in microgravity. Measurements will be added to TRISH’s EXPAND (Enhancing eXploration Platforms and ANalog Definition) program, which seeks to increase understanding of human health and performance through data collected from commercial spaceflight participants.

Gravity loading countermeasure in collaboration with MIT

The Gravity Loading Countermeasure Skinsuit is an intravehicular activity suit for astronauts that has been developed to simulate some of the effects of Earth’s gravity and mitigate some of the physiological effects of microgravity, including spinal elongation, muscle atrophy, and sensorimotor changes. This wearable system is intended to supplement exercise during future missions to the Moon and Mars and to further attenuate microgravity induced physiological effects in future low-Earth orbit mission scenarios. The purpose of this study is to characterize the Skinsuit and its physiological effects on a short-duration low-Earth orbit mission.

Multifunctional shielding polymer demo in collaboration with Cosmic Shielding Corporation

A newly developed polymer nanocomposite, commercially known as Plasteel, is being tested for its ability to protect against space radiation, which consists of heavy charged particles and secondary photons, electrons, and neutrons. During the Ax-2 mission, the newly developed nanocomposite will be tested in the internal radiation environment of the ISS to validate the shielding ability of the material for both electronics and future astronauts. CSC's Plasteel has been tested at particle accelerator facilities on Earth, and this mission will represent the first major on-orbit demonstration of the technology.

Cloud seeding in microgravity in collaboration with King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM), Saudi Space Commission, and Nanoracks

Cloud seeding is the process of artificially generating rain by implanting clouds with particles such as silver iodide (AgI) crystals. Cloud seeding has been adopted by many countries to increase precipitation in areas suffering from droughts. In this experiment, cloud seeding will be examined for the first time in space under microgravity conditions. Moist air and AgI crystals will be mixed in a reaction chamber to examine the possibility of nucleation, where water vapor condenses on AgI crystals to form water droplets.  The outcome of this experiment will help develop weather control technology to generate artificial rain in future human settlements on the Moon and Mars.

Imaging of Lightning and Nighttime Electrical Phenomena from Space (ILAN-ES) in collaboration with the Rakia Mission

This night-time experiment will image thunderstorms, lightning, and transient luminous events (TLEs) known as sprites, blue jets, and elves. These electrical phenomena occur at high altitudes above thunderstorms and are a marker of severe weather and extremely powerful lightning, called superbolts. By taking video images from the ISS Cupola, the interactions between the upper and lower atmosphere can be studied. Observations from space will be augmented by ground-based observations conducted by international research groups and schoolchildren in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Axiom Space communication systems technical demonstration

The Axiom Space Communications System payload will develop and test alternative ways for onboard communication to be used with a type of mobile device. This test will potentially allow crew members more flexibility to communicate with mission control and loved ones on the ground.

Axiom Space imagery processing and collection 

Axiom Space is investigating the use of an automatic, wireless transfer application tool for downlinking imagery. This demonstration will provide insight on the feasibility and efficiency of this tool for future use on Axiom Station to reduce crew time and ground time on image transferring, allowing the crew and ground more time to focus on science and outreach.

Stowage Tracking & Inventory Intelligent Video System (STIIVS)

Axiom Space’s STIIVS uses computer vision to identify and track items for inventory management, stowage location tracking, and associated analytics. Results could provide insight into the feasibility and efficiency of this tool for use on Axiom Habitation Module 1 (AxH1) once it is attached to the ISS.

Odor visualization in collaboration with Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation (JAMSS)

JAMSS Odor Visualization is a tech demo developed by JAMSS that will use two QCM (quartz crystal microbalance) sensors to detect odors in a low-Earth orbit pressurized environment. The data collected will then be used to visualize the detected odors and could improve the quality of life for space travelers with future applications.

DreamUp DreamKits in collaboration with Nanoracks

The STEM-focused experiments are conducted in microgravity to educate students on the unique environment of the Space Station. These three visual experiments will demonstrate differences in fluid behavior on Earth and in microgravity, explore the aerodynamic behavior of different kite shapes on the ISS, and show effects of the vacuum of space on heat transfer. Students across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will participate in ground-based experiments on Earth to gather comparison data with custom-built kits and, in the case of Space Kites, the general public can gather their own data using household materials and instructions provided by DreamUp. This project is in collaboration with the Saudi Space Commission.

Axiom Space and its partners will be releasing more details on the research conducted on Ax-2 in the weeks to come, here: axiomspace.com/ax2-research.

Axiom Space Partners with UC San Diego to Launch Stem Cell Research for Regenerative Medicine to Space

Commercial space leader Axiom Space has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the University of California San Diego to promote collaborative efforts to send stem cell research for regenerative medicine to space.  In conjunction with an historic $150 million gift to UC San Diego from T. Denny Sanford to establish the UC San Diego Sanford Stem Cell Institute, this agreement will support expansion of existing stem cell translational medicine initiatives in microgravity and development of future core facilities supporting stem cell translational medicine on Axiom Station, the world’s first commercial space station.

The MOU supports Axiom Space’s endeavors to establish a core user facility on Axiom Station, called the Integrated Stem Cell Orbital Research (ISSCOR) Laboratory, in partnership with UC San Diego. The ISSCOR program, initiated under a NASA Commercialization Award in 2020, is designed to replicate the highly successful Sanford Consortium of Regenerative Medicine terrestrial collaborative, a multi-disciplinary approach to accelerate the pace of breakthroughs in stem cell translational medicine.

“We are thrilled to partner with the globally recognized University of California team of stem cell researchers to help facilitate breakthrough discoveries aimed at diagnosis, treatments, and future cures for cancer and other age-related degenerative diseases,” said Christian Maender, Axiom’s Executive Vice President for In-Space Solutions.

“T. Denny Sanford’s visionary gift will further advance UC San Diego’s leadership in stem cell medicine.  It also highlights the power of partnerships between industry, universities and philanthropists to leverage the unique benefits of microgravity in low-Earth orbit that advance innovative research and development for patients in need. Axiom is excited to continue our work together and to collaborate with the partners in this expanding ecosystem of stem cell translational medicine that will enable new discoveries and therapies benefiting all of humanity.”

The Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine houses the basic and translational research laboratories of the Sanford Stem Cell Clinical Center at UC San Diego Health – part of the newly established institute – with the mission to advance stem cell research through collaborative, multi-disciplinary interactions. This partnership allows scientists from the La Jolla Institute for Immunology, the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, Sanford Burnham Prebys, Scripps Research and UC San Diego to work side by side in a facility specifically designed to achieve breakthrough discoveries in stem cell translational medicine.

Through this MOU, Axiom will supply spaceflight services to UC San Diego via access to Axiom’s private astronaut missions and to the company’s future world-class platform to perform microgravity research and manufacturing for UC San Diego faculty, students and external partners. This agreement supports proof-of-concept work on the International Space Station (ISS) demonstrating technologies and initial state-of-the-art capabilities that, once validated on ISS, would transition to the first Axiom module docked to the ISS in 2024.

In addition to signing an MOU with the University of California, Axiom has signed agreements with Aotearoa New Zealand, the Italian government, Hungary and the United Arab Emirates. These historic agreements signify the company’s commitment to provide companies, academic institutions and communities across the globe access to microgravity to advance scientific research, innovative technologies, on-orbit manufacturing and space exploration.

About Axiom Space

Axiom Space is guided by the vision of a thriving home in space that benefits every human, everywhere. The leading provider of human spaceflight services and developer of human-rated space infrastructure, Axiom operates end-to-end missions to the International Space Station today while privately building its successor, Axiom Station, the first permanent commercial destination in Earth's orbit that will sustain human growth off the planet and bring untold benefits back home

Axiom Space and Partners Demonstrate Commitment to Emerging Technologies for In Space Production and Manufacturing in Low-Earth Orbit

At the core of Axiom Space’s mission is to enable the development of a diverse and robust commercial economy in low-Earth orbit. Axiom Space, a leader in human spaceflight and building the world’s first commercial space station, proudly congratulates four of its partners whose proposals were selected by NASA in Focus Area 1A of the NASA Research Announcement (NRA) seeking In Space Production Applications (InSPA) flight demonstrations:

• Establishing Production of Stem Cell Therapies, Cedars-Sinai Regenerative Medicine Institute, Los Angeles

• Fabrication of Flawless Glass in Microgravity, Flawless Photonics, Inc., Los Altos Hills, California

• Biomimetic Fabrication of Multifunctional DNA-inspired Nanomaterials, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut

• Semimetal-Semiconductor Composite Bulk Crystals, United Semiconductors, LLC, Los Alamitos, California

Axiom Space and its partners made up half of the selected proposals, highlighting the company’s commitment to enabling proof-of-concept demonstrations and cutting-edge advancements that will establish next-generation technologies in the first independent space station.

“I congratulate our partners for this tremendous accomplishment and their dedication to innovating and advancing in-space technologies and capabilities in low-Earth orbit,” said Christian Maender, Director of In-Space Research and Manufacturing at Axiom Space. “We are excited that NASA continues to expand and offer more opportunities for in-space production applications and for taking the next steps in the commercialization of space.”

More about the selectees:

Cedars-Sinai Regenerative Medicine Institute, located in Los Angeles, in partnership with Axiom Space of Houston has been selected for proposing to use cutting-edge methods related to the production and differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) on the International Space Station. Cedars-Sinai will explore in-space production of stem cells into heart, brain, and blood tissues in support of regenerative medicine uses on Earth. While stem cells and stem cell-derived tissues hold great promise for use in research and as clinical-grade therapeutic agents, safe and efficient expansion of stem cells and their derivatives continues to be a major challenge on Earth. Generating, expanding, and differentiating cells at scale in the microgravity environment of space with sufficient yields of a constant therapeutic cell product that meets FDA biologics requirements may be the answer to overcome those challenges.

Flawless Photonics, Inc. of Los Altos Hills, California, in partnership with the University of Adelaide, Axiom Space, and Visioneering Space has been selected for their proposal to develop specialized glass manufacturing hardware to process Heavy-Metal Fluoride Glasses (HMFG) in microgravity. HMFG glasses are used in the terrestrial manufacturing of exotic optical fibers and other optics applications. Without convective forces present in 1g, HMFG made in microgravity are expected to achieve the ideal amorphous microstructure during synthesis, eliminating light scattering defects that limit lasing power and transmission over long fiber lengths.

The University of Connecticut out of Storrs, Connecticut, in partnership with Eascra Biotech of Boston, Massachusetts and Axiom Space of Houston, has been selected for their proposed biomimetic fabrication of multifunctional nanomaterials, a cutting-edge breakthrough in biomedicine that can benefit from microgravity in space to accomplish controlled self-assembly of DNA-inspired Janus base nanomaterials (JBNs). These JBNs will be used as effective, safe, and stable delivery vehicles for RNA therapeutics and vaccines, as well as first-in-kind injectable scaffolds for regenerative medicine. By leveraging the benefits of microgravity, the UConn/Eascra team expects to mature in-space production of different types of JBNs with more orderly structures and higher homogeneity over what is possible using terrestrial materials, improving efficacy for mRNA therapeutics and structural integrity for cartilage tissue repair.

United Semiconductors of Los Alamitos, California, has been selected for their proposal to produce semimetal-semiconductor composite bulk crystals commonly used in electromagnetic sensors for solving challenges in the energy, high performance computing and national security sectors. Together with teammates Axiom Space of Houston and Redwire of Greenville, Indiana, United Semiconductors intends to validate the scaling and efficacy of producing larger semimetal-semiconductor composite crystals under microgravity conditions with perfectly aligned and continuous semimetal wires embedded across the semiconductor matrix. If successful at eliminating defects found in those manufactured with terrestrial materials, United Semiconductors will have developed a processing technology for creating device-ready wafers from space-grown crystals.