Axiom Space, Burjeel Holdings Sign Agreement to Conduct Research, Test New Technologies in Space

The organizations are working on sending a suite of medical capabilities to space to further science research on how the human body reacts in microgravity.

(Left to right) Dr. Lucie Low, Axiom Space Chief Scientist and Mr. John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings (Credit: Axiom Space)

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Axiom Space, the leading provider of human spaceflight services and developer of human-rated space infrastructure, and Burjeel Holdings PLC (“Burjeel” or “the Group”), a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in MENA listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (SYMBOL: BURJEEL; ISIN: AEE01119B224), signed a Memorandum of Understanding today to conduct science research and test new technologies in space, forging the beginning of a long-term collaboration aimed at expanding access to microgravity for medical advancements.

The collaboration was officially announced at a signing ceremony held at the Burjeel Institute for Global Health in New York, attended by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, and Mr. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings.

As their first initiative, Axiom Space and Burjeel are working on sending a suite of medical capabilities to space to further science research on how the human body reacts in microgravity. The suite consists of best-in-class technologies used in hospitals and clinics around the world, including Burjeel Holdings’ flagship facility Burjeel Medical City (BMC). The research seeks to study how the microgravity environment affects relevant biomarkers, drug substance quality, and remote health services. Axiom Space astronaut(s) intend to wear and operate these technologies remotely throughout their training, launch, and during Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), which is scheduled to launch next spring.

Dr. Lucie Low, Axiom Space Chief Scientist, said: “This partnership with Burjeel Holdings underscores how Axiom Space is providing opportunities for organizations around the world to conduct medical research in space. We’re reimagining the way humans live and work in low-Earth orbit by leveraging microgravity to further our understanding of the human body, while also educating the global community on how to employ the microgravity environment for advancements in science and technology to benefit humanity.”

Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, commented: "Through our groundbreaking partnership with Axiom Space, we are not only advancing the frontiers of medical innovation in microgravity, but we are also ensuring that both patients in the UAE and around the globe benefit from next-generation healthcare solutions. This collaboration aligns seamlessly and supports the UAE's ambitious vision for space exploration. Just as we continue to reap the benefits of innovations from the space missions over 50 years ago — transforming everything from telecommunications to medical imaging — this collaboration represents a commitment to harnessing the unique environment of space to develop and enhance treatment methodologies. Ultimately, we are laying the foundation for improved patient outcomes today and for generations to come."

This partnership sets the foundation for a long-term collaboration between Axiom Space and Burjeel, opening the microgravity environment to new users and space explorers, and elevating Burjeel’s healthcare innovation ambitions.

ABOUT AXIOM SPACE

Axiom Space is guided by the vision to improve life on Earth and foster possibilities beyond it. 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.

ABOUT BURJEEL HOLDINGS

Founded in 2007, Burjeel Holdings is a leading super-specialty healthcare services provider in the UAE and Oman, and it operates a growing specialized healthcare segment in Saudi Arabia. The Group developed an integrated and multi-brand healthcare ecosystem across primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary medical care, ensuring complex care delivery to patients across all socioeconomic groups.

 Our network comprises 89 assets across the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, including 19 hospitals, 47 medical centers, 15 pharmacies, and other allied services. Burjeel Holdings’ brands include Burjeel, Medeor, LLH, Lifecare, PhysioTherabia and Tajmeel.

Axiom Space CEO Transitions to Board of Directors

Axiom Space today announced the transition of CEO Mike Suffredini to a position on the company’s Board of Directors, following eight years of leading the company to significant achievements in the space industry.

Suffredini will continue to play a pivotal role within Axiom Space as an advisor and long-term board member.

“I have dedicated over 40 years to advancing humanity through human spaceflight, including the past eight-plus years alongside Dr. Kam Ghaffarian at Axiom Space,” said Suffredini. “For personal reasons, I have decided to step down as CEO, effective August 9th. I will remain as an advisor to ensure a smooth transition and continue my role as a board member.”

Dr. Ghaffarian, Axiom Space's Executive Chairman and co-founder, will assume the role of interim CEO until a permanent successor is appointed. His extensive experience and deep industry knowledge make him well-suited to lead the company during this period.

“We are grateful for Mike's invaluable contributions to human space exploration and the remarkable growth of Axiom Space,” said Ghaffarian. “He will continue to offer his unique perspective and expertise as we advance our mission. I am confident in our team's ability to navigate this transition smoothly and maintain the high standards that define Axiom Space for our employees, customers, stakeholders, and partners worldwide.”

Axiom Space Welcomes British Astronaut Tim Peake to its Astronaut Corps

Credit: Alex Chamberlin

Peake to serve as strategic advisor for all-UK human spaceflight mission

Renowned British astronaut Tim Peake joins Axiom Space’s astronaut team as a strategic advisor, with the specific task of supporting the development of and strategy behind a potential all-UK human spaceflight mission with the Houston-based company.

Peake, a celebrated figure in the space community, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new advisory role. He will support the team’s strategy to confirm and secure funding for this one-nation space exploration effort. The proposed mission aims to be a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind venture, showcasing the viability of a commercially sponsored pathway to space for the UK.

"We are thrilled to welcome Tim Peake to Axiom Space,” said Michael Lopéz-Alegría, Axiom Space Chief Astronaut. “His vision and guidance will be invaluable as we work to make this all-UK mission a reality. Partnering with the UK Space Agency on this historic endeavor underscores our collective commitment to redefining access to space, unlocking low-Earth orbit’s true potential for nations and industries around the world."

In October 2023, Axiom Space and the UK Space Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore the feasibility of a UK-crewed commercial mission. This collaborative effort is designed to be funded through private sponsorships from UK-based companies. And in February, the UK Space Agency announced up to £15 million could be made available for British science and technology to fly to space, should the proposed UK mission progress as planned.

"I am excited to join Axiom Space and contribute to this pioneering effort,” said Peake. “An all-UK mission represents a significant opportunity for our country to establish a strong presence as well as a leadership role in the commercial space sector. I look forward to working with Axiom Space and the UK Space Agency to advance this exciting possibility."

About Tim Peake
Tim Peake is a former European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut and the first British ESA astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS). With a distinguished career in space exploration, Peake is a prominent figure in the global space community and an advocate for STEM education and international collaboration in space. 

Axiom Space Featured in Freethink's Hard Reset Series

Axiom Space is featured in the latest episode of Freethink's acclaimed documentary series, Hard Reset. Get an inside look at how Axiom Space is leading a transformation of low-Earth orbit and is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space exploration.

The episode covers the development and testing of Axiom Space’s new spacesuits, the AxEMU, and a look at the world’s next-generation space station, Axiom Station, which will replace the International Space Station when it retires at the end of this decade.

We invite you to learn more about how Axiom Space is building for beyond.

Axiom Space, Build-A-Bear Continue Partnership Sending GiGi to Space on Another Mission to Inspire Youth through STEAM Education

Axiom Space and Build-A-Bear Workshop (NYSE: BBW) have continued their partnership and will send a furry fifth crew member to space, alongside the Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) astronauts in a launch planned no earlier than Jan. 17, from Florida. The teddy bear, named GiGi, will launch to space as the Ax-3 mission’s zero-gravity indicator wearing Axiom Space’s next-generation spacesuit. GiGi’s first mission was Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2) in May, marking the first time Build-A-Bear sent a furry friend to space, and once again, both companies will engage youth through STEAM education and outreach.

Be part of this memorable moment with the unique replica of Axiom Space’s next generation spacesuit worn by the crew. Available now in select stores, online at Build-A-Bear and merch.axiomspace.com (Credit: Axiom Space)

GiGi’s return to space continues the tradition of having a zero-gravity indicator inside the spacecraft to provide a visual indicator when the spacecraft has reached the weightlessness of microgravity. As the fifth crew member of Ax-3, GiGi’s mission is to inspire children around the world to learn about space and consider careers in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEAM).   

As the fifth crew member of Ax-3, GiGi’s mission is to inspire children around the world to learn about space and consider careers in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEAM).  (Credit: Axiom Space)

“Our partnership with Build-A-Bear is key in helping to drive curiosity in young minds about space exploration,” said Sandra Nelson, Vice President of Marketing, Axiom Space. “We want our fifth crew member, GiGi, to inspire youth in space exploration and encourage them to grow their knowledge about STEAM. It’s imperative that we build a diverse workforce with a unique skillset ready to drive innovations and fuel new ideas to advance civilization.” 

In preparation of Ax-3, GiGi visited the Axiom Space suit lab to see learn about spacesuit design and how a spacesuit protects astronauts from the space environment. (Credit: Axiom Space)

Julia Fitzgerald, Chief Marketing Officer at Build-A-Bear, shares her excitement on the continued partnership with Axiom Space. “We love to foster creativity and create special moments at Build-A-Bear, so we are pleased to continue our partnership with Axiom Space and see our beloved GiGi head back to orbit as part of the Ax-3 mission. Not only does this mark a special moment in history, but we also hope GiGi’s story inspires children to consider STEAM activities, hobbies and even careers. Our bears are always there for a hug and friendship, but we especially love when they can also provide the inspiration for pursuing a 'sky’s not the limit’ adventure.”  

GiGi is featured on a replica of the Axiom Station Hatch which resembles the hatch and locking mechanism that will be used to access the future Axiom Station. (Credit: Axiom Space)

About The Ax-3 Mission

Ax-3 will be the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to launch to the space station – redefining the pathway to low-Earth orbit (LEO) and helping chart a course toward Axiom Station, the world’s first commercial space station. 

The Ax-3 crewmembers are 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 ESA. To learn more about the Ax-3 mission, visit www.axiomspace.com/ax3 . 

GiGi’s Story

GiGi was the first Build-A-Bear to make bear history this past spring as the fifth crew member and zero-gravity indicator aboard the historic Ax-2 mission. GiGi, yet again, will have the special opportunity to serve as the zero-g indicator to return to space aboard the upcoming Ax-3 mission. GiGi shares these inspiring words:  

“My first space mission was the culmination of a lifelong dream. Now, I am a full-time astronaut and aspiring pilot, and this next space adventure will give me the opportunity to learn even more and complete my pilot training. With a little heart and a lot of hard work and dedication, I want all children to know that dreams are always within reach.”  

To read GiGi’s full story and follow her space adventures please visit her blog at www.axiomspace.com/news/meet-gigi.  Fans can also follow GiGi’s exciting adventures on all @buildabear social channels. 

Celebrate GiGi’s Second Mission

Be part of this memorable moment and join Build-A-Bear for an out-of-this-world party with fun events at participating Build-A-Bear Workshops. Visit select stores on Saturday, January 13 and Saturday, January 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for fun sticker giveaways, an appearance from our mascot Bearemy, and the opportunity to make a furry friend and outfit them in the Axiom Space next-generation spacesuit.  This unique replica of the spacesuit worn by the crew is available in select stores and online at Build-A-Bear and merch.axiomspace.com.

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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.

ABOUT BUILD-A-BEAR®

Build-A-Bear is a multi-generational global brand focused on its mission to "add a little more heart to life" appealing to a wide array of consumer groups who enjoy the personal expression in making their own "furry friends" to celebrate and commemorate life moments. Nearly 500 interactive brick-and-mortar experience locations operated through a variety of formats provide guests of all ages a hands-on entertaining experience, which often fosters a lasting and emotional brand connection. The company also offers engaging e-commerce/digital purchasing experiences on buildabear.com and its age-gated, adult-focused "Bear Cave". In addition, extending its brand power beyond retail, Build-A-Bear Entertainment, a subsidiary of Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc., is dedicated to creating engaging content for kids and adults that fulfills the company's mission.