Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #8

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 fifth full day (flight day eight) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Highlights of the Day

The crew is in full gear conducting research and outreach engagements. As the Ax-3 crew is now almost halfway through the mission, they participated in individual mission management conferences for an opportunity to connect with ground support to discuss overall mission success and their daily lookahead.

Research

Today, Villadei conducted a technology demonstration with the Smart Flight Suit 2 (SFS2). The suit contains sensors that monitor the heart's beating patterns, body temperature, and movement. The goals of this project are to test the comfort and behavior of the suit's fabrics in space, validate the function of the inbuilt sensors, and validate the utility of the suit within microgravity.

MLA supported Gezeravcı for 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. Expedition 70 crewmembers helped configure the Life Science Glovebox (LSG) for gMetal. Gezeravcı mixed the quartz tube samples and captured videos. 

Wandt completed another Orbital Architecture cognitive assessment with the fNIRS headcap. He also finished a Virtual Reality on-board training for the European Space Agency (ESA).

Outreach

Today, Villadei participated in a NASA PAO event with the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni.  

Tomorrow, Gezeravcı will participate in a fireside chat with the Türkiye Minister of Industry and Technology along with members of the delegation to celebrate the first Turkish astronaut and discuss Ax-3 mission objectives. 

Media

Villadei will do 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.

Tomorrow at 8:15 a.m. CT, Wandt will participate in an interview with one of Sweden's largest TV channels, SVT. During the event, Wandt will discuss the experiments he is conducting on the ISS and his experience as an Ax-3 astronaut.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #7

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 fourth full day (flight day seven) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Highlights of the Day

The crew is spending much of their time conducting research and outreach engagements. Since launching to the ISS on Jan. 18, the Ax-3 astronauts have now orbited the Earth approximately 96 times.

Research

MLA and Villadei utilized the Timeshifter application, which helps them synchronize with the ISS crew sleep schedule.

Today, Villadei continued to complete more microscope imaging of the cancer cell cultures stored in bioreactor bags for the Cancer in LEO project. This project studies tumor organoids in microgravity with the goal to identify early warning signs of cancer for prediction and prevention of disease. 

After adding a growth solution yesterday, Gezeravcı proceeded to take images of the plant samples to track their growth progression for the Extremophyte Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) project. This study will ultimately examine 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.

Gezeravcı also completed surface swapping for the second part of the CRISPR study, which will evaluate the salt stress tolerance of two plants (one salt-sensitive and one salt-tolerant) that will be germinated and grown onboard the ISS. This will show how microgravity affects the growth, movement, and genetics of Arabidopsis thaliana (thale cress, a member of the mustard family) and could provide valuable insights into plant adaptation to extreme environments and help develop more resilient crops for agriculture.

Outreach

Wandt completed a test of the ESA-led Multi-Avatar and Robots Collaborating with Intuitive Interface (Surface Avatar) project and provided post-execution notes on the use of the payload. Surface Avatar is focused on developing robotic assets for space exploration, building infrastructure on planets and asteroids, and optimizing processes for data connections and communications relays. 

Today, Villadei participated in an event with the medical director for the Italian company GVM Assistance, Giampaolo Stopazzolo, to discuss medicine in space. During Ax-3, GVM is testing a telemedicine platform by collecting and monitoring data using a health application through devices worn by the crew. This technology could be used in the future to monitor and manage the health of astronauts before, during, and after human spaceflight missions.

Tomorrow at 8:25 a.m. CT, Villadei will participate in a live NASA PAO event with the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #6

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 third full day (flight day six) on the International Space Station (ISS). 

Highlights of the Day

The crew has seamlessly adjusted to microgravity and are now busy conducting research and outreach engagements.

Research

Today, Villadei continued to complete more microscope imaging of the cancer cell cultures stored in bioreactor bags 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 spent most of his day working in the Life Sciences Glovebox (LSG). He added a growth solution to plant samples in petri dishes and then returned them to the staging location. The Extremophyte Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) project will examine 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.

Now that the Orbital Architecture study is set up, Wandt recorded his brain activity through a cap embedded with sensors on his forehead to collect data assessing cognitive function. This study will investigate how isolated and confined environments on Earth and in space affect an astronaut’s cognitive performance, stress levels, and stress recovery rate.

Media

Yesterday, MLA and Gezeravcı completed the first (out of three) webcast mission updates, which provide insight into the work, experiences, and day-to-day activities of the crewmembers at the beginning, middle, and upon the conclusion of their 14-day stay aboard the space station.
WATCH MISSION UPDATE #1 BELOW.

Today, Wandt participated in an interview with Aftonbladet, which is the largest newspaper in Scandinavia. He discussed the importance of human spaceflight, living and working in space, and microgravity research.

Wandt also joined his European Space Agency (ESA) colleague and ISS Commander Andy Mogensen in a joint event for the European Space Conference. 

Outreach

MLA participated in a live event with ASTM International, the American Society for Testing and Materials. During this event, MLA spoke with ASTM chair members about the difference between commercial and government astronaut missions, as well as safety frameworks and standards. 

Tomorrow, Villadei will participate in an event with the medical director for the Italian company GVM Assistance, Giampaolo Stopazzolo. During the event, Villadei and Stopazzolo will discuss medicine in space. During Ax-3, GVM will be testing its telemedicine platform by collecting and monitoring data through a health application from wearable devices worn by the crew. This technology could be used in the future to monitor and manage the health of astronauts before, during, and after human spaceflight missions.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #5

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 second full day (flight day five) on the International Space Station (ISS).

Highlights of the Day

The Ax-3 crewmembers participated in their first outreach engagements and continued to prepare and set up research projects and experiments. Upon their departure from the ISS, the crew will have completed more than 30 experiments and more than 50 outreach engagements.

Research

Today Villadei performed microscope imaging of the cancer cell cultures stored in bioreactor bags for the Cancer in LEO project. In partnership with Axiom Space and the Sanford Stem Cell Institute, this experiment will study tumor organoids in microgravity with the goal to identify early warning signs of cancer for prediction and prevention of disease.

Villadei also activated sample tubes and completed initial sample transfers into the MELFI cold stowage facility for the βeta-Amyloid Aggregation Update experiment. Led by the Italian Space Agency (ASI), this project will investigate the aggregation of amyloid beta (Aβ) proteins, which are implicated in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease). Researching proteins in microgravity provides an opportunity to better understand the mechanisms of Aβ protein aggregation and the formation of amyloid plaques, which could lead to insights into how to prevent or reverse formation in Alzheimer's patients.

Media

To begin preparations for the Orbital Architecture study, Wandt charged the non-invasive functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) payload device, which will record brain activity through a cap embedded with sensors on a participant’s forehead during cognitive assessments. He also connected the hardware to a Columbus payload laptop for initial science capture. The Orbital Architecture study will investigate how isolated and confined environments on Earth and in space affect an astronaut’s cognitive performance, stress levels, and stress recovery rate.

Outreach

The Ax-3 crew also participated in a NASA PAO event with the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC), which is a professional network with more than 27,000 members from more than 165 countries bringing together the views of students and young space professionals to the United Nations, space industry, and other organizations. During the live event, the Ax-3 astronauts answered questions from members of SGAC about their life, experiences, and important work being conducted in space, as the first all-European commercial astronaut mission.

Tomorrow, Wandt will do a recorded interview with Aftonbladet, which is the largest newspaper in Scandinavia. He will discuss the importance of human spaceflight, living and working in space, and microgravity research.

The Ax-3 astronauts completed the ICE Cubes Media Set setup with Bluetooth headphones and Bose Soundlink Revolve+II Bluetooth speaker pairing. They conducted practice Q&A sessions as a group and individually. This test event will ensure the crew is comfortable with using the equipment and understands the protocols for ICE Cubes Media Set events. ICE Cubes is a platform that offers ability to connect astronauts to the ground in support of experiments, research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements. The ICE Cubes service provides fast and direct access to the ISS for any country, institute, or user.

Gezeravcı had his first interaction, since going to space, with Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. During this live event, the Ax-3 Mission Specialist and Türkiye President participated in a public celebration of Gezeravcı being the first Turkish astronaut and commemorated the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye.

Tomorrow at 10:40 a.m. CT, MLA will participate in a live event with ASTM International, the American Society for Testing and Materials, which is an international standards organization that develops and publishes voluntary consensus technical standards for a wide range of materials, products, systems, and services. During this event, MLA will speak with ASTM chair members about the difference between commercial and government astronaut missions, as well as safety frameworks and standards.

Ax-3 Mission Update Flight Day #4

Ax-3 crew is shown greeted by the Expedition 70 crew as they enter the ISS on Jan. 20.

Crew Status

Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt entered the International Space Station (ISS) around 6:15 a.m. CT on Jan. 20 after docking to the ISS Harmony module at 4:42 a.m. CT, while soaring over the Pacific Ocean. Today officially marks the crew’s fourth flight day after launching to the ISS at 3:49 p.m. CT on Jan. 18 from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The fourth flight day was the crew’s first full day aboard the orbiting laboratory to kick off their two-week stay — they are happy, healthy, and eager to begin a full slate of microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements. 

Highlights of the Day

Since arriving to the ISS, the Ax-3 crew has worked to settled in on station. The crew set up their sleeping bags in their sleeping quarters — with MLA located in the airlock campout, Villadei in the Dragon, Gezeravcı in the JEM campout, and Wandt in Columbus. The crew also synced up with their Expedition 70 crew colleagues for handover activities and to help them acclimate to the microgravity environment.

After their first sleep on the ISS, the Ax-3 crew completed unpacking the Dragon cargo. The ISS emergency roles and responsibility review was also completed, ensuring the entire crew aboard the ISS is ready to respond in case of a contingency.

Research

During the planned 14-day stay on the ISS, the Ax-3 crew will conduct over 30 research projects and experiments on station. Today, Gezeravcı began preparations for the Extremophyte Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) experiment in the Destiny laboratory module. Gezeravcı set up the lights and plant samples. Led by TÜBİTAK UZAY, this project will examine 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.

Villadei started preparations for the PROtection MEdiated by antioxidant nanoTEchnOlogy against neuronal damage in space II (PROMETEO II)experiment—the payload was installed in the Columbus Kubik facility. Led by the Italian Space Agency (ASI), this project is a continuation of an ongoing study aimed to investigate how exposure to microgravity and space radiation affects cellular response to stress, as well as the neuroprotective effects of cerium oxide nanoparticles. 

Media

Yesterday, soon after entering the ISS, the Ax-3 crew was greeted by the Expedition 70 crewmembers and celebrated their arrival during the welcome ceremony. During the live event, MLA presented his Ax-3 crewmates with their official astronaut pins, declaring Gezeravcı to be the 676th and Wandt the 677th to go to space. Villadei became number 666 during his Virgin Galactic flight on Jun. 29, 2023. 

Tomorrow at 9:55 a.m. CT, MLA will be joined by Gezeravcı for the first (out of three) webcast mission updates, which will provide insight into the work, experiences, and day-to-day activities of the crewmembers at the beginning, middle, and upon the conclusion of their 14-day stay aboard the space station.  

Outreach

The Ax-3 crew will also participate tomorrow at 11:30 a.m. CT, in a NASA PAO event, with the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC) for a live Q&A. SGAC is a professional network with more than 27,000 members from more than 165 countries bringing together the views of students and young space professionals to the United Nations, space industry, and other organizations. 

Tomorrow, Gezeravcı will have his first interaction, since going to space, with Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. During this NASA PAO event, the Ax-3 Mission Specialist and Türkiye President will conduct a public celebration of Gezeravcı being the first Turkish astronaut and commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye.

Axiom Space Celebrates Arrival of Ax-3 crew to International Space Station

The Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) crew has successfully reached their destination and will begin their planned 14-day mission on the International Space Station (ISS). After seamlessly docking to the orbiting laboratory, Ax-3 Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt entered the space station at 7:15 a.m. ET on Jan. 20.

As a symbolic gesture, Commander López-Alegría ceremoniously adorned 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 Gezeravcı to be the 676th and Wandt the 677th to go to space. Villadei became number 666 during his Virgin Galactic flight on Jun. 29, 2023.

The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, carrying the Ax-3 astronauts, embarked on its voyage to space atop a Falcon 9 rocket at 4:49 p.m. ET on Jan. 18 from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

During their time aboard the space station, the Ax-3 crew will conduct a diverse array of over 30 experiments spanning various fields in science and technology. These endeavors aim to propel advancements in human spaceflight and contribute to enhancing life on our home planet. Ax-3 stands as the third among multiple proposed Axiom Space human spaceflight missions, laying the groundwork for Axiom Station, which is set to become the world’s first commercial space station.

The mission is scheduled to conclude on Feb. 3 with undocking, culminating in a splashdown off the coast of Florida aboard the Dragon spacecraft.

Click here to watch the Ax-3 welcome ceremony.

Ax-3 Crew Docks to International Space Station

Axiom Space’s Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) crew successfully reached the International Space Station (ISS) in a journey that lasted approximately 36 hours. The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft docked to the ISS Harmony module at 5:42 a.m. ET on Jan. 20, while soaring over the Pacific Ocean.

The Ax-3 mission marks another milestone with the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to launch to the ISS — 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 the European Space Agency.

The multinational Ax-3 astronauts embarked on their historic mission to the ISS from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The liftoff occurred at 4:49 p.m. ET on Jan. 18.

The Ax-3 crew will soon enter the space station and be greeted by NASA’s Expedition Crew for the welcome ceremony. This will begin their up to 14-day mission on the orbiting laboratory conducting microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements. 

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

Ax-3 Crew Checks in from Orbit

The astronauts of Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) did a quick check-in from the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft during their journey to the International Space Station (ISS), shortly after launching from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crew shared their first experiences of being in space.

During the check-in, Ax-3 Commander Michael López-Alegría confirmed the crew's well-being and safety as they navigate the interim period between launch and docking with the ISS.

Collaborative efforts between Axiom Space, SpaceX, and NASA ground personnel are in full swing, as teams meticulously coordinate and ensure a viable interception of the space station. As Dragon moves through space, the spacecraft will autonomously navigate a careful and calculated rendezvous with the ISS. The Dragon spacecraft is now anticipated to dock to the space-facing port of the ISS Harmony module as early as 4:19 a.m. ET on Jan. 20.  

In advance of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft docking with the ISS, at 2:30 a.m. ET, the Ax-3 live webcast will begin. Watch the crew arrive at the ISS live at axiomspace.com, NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency’s website. The Ax-3 webcast will cover the vehicle’s approach and docking through crew arrival on the space station, where they will be greeted by NASA’s Expedition crew during an arrival ceremony. This will begin the crew’s mission on the orbiting laboratory conducting microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements.

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

Ax-3 to Now Launch on Jan. 18

SpaceX and Axiom Space are now targeting Thursday, Jan. 18 at 4:49 p.m. ET for the launch of Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) to the International Space Station (ISS). This launch date change will allow additional time for teams to complete pre-launch checkouts and data analysis, including of the parachute system energy modulator.

Click here for updates on launch coverage and follow along for mission updates with #Ax3 on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook, and on our website.

Listen to the Pre-Launch Press Conference

Axiom Space held a virtual pre-launch press conference on Jan. 16, one day ahead of the Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) launch. Participants included leaders from Axiom Space, NASA, SpaceX, and the U.S. Space Force. 

The Ax-3 mission is targeted to launch on Jan. 17, 2024, at 5:11 p.m. ET. A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch the Ax-3 crew aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Once docked, the Axiom Space astronauts plan to spend up to 14 days aboard the orbiting laboratory implementing a full mission comprised of microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements.

Ax-3 will be the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the ISS, including crewmembers 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.

Participants included:

• Derek Hassmann, Chief of Mission Integration and Operations, Axiom Space

• Dana Weigel, Deputy Manager, International Space Station Program, NASA

• Benji Reed, Senior Director of Human Spaceflight Programs, SpaceX

• Brian Cizek, Launch Weather Officer, 45th Weather Squadron, U.S. Space Force 

Listen to the press conference here. 

Tomorrow starting at 3:15 p.m. ET, the launch webcast will follow the journey of the four-person, all-European Ax-3 crew as they prepare to liftoff from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s KSC in Florida at 5:11 p.m. ET. The webcast will continue until roughly 20 minutes after launch with stunning views of the spacecraft traveling to the ISS. Watch live at axiomspace.com. 

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

Ax-3 Crew Launches to International Space Station

Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3), the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), successfully launched today on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The Ax-3 crew is now in orbit following a 4:49 p.m. ET liftoff. The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is anticipated to dock to the space-facing port of the ISS Harmony module as early as 4:19 a.m. ET on Jan. 20.

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 the European Space Agency (ESA). 

During their planned 14-day mission, the Ax-3 crew will live and work aboard the orbiting laboratory conducting more than 30 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. Furthermore, this mission will harness opportunities for industrial advancements and technological development to drive discovery off the planet.

Notably, Ax-3 spotlights European nations as pioneers of the emerging commercial space industry, as the crew boldly positions their governments and space agencies as future leaders and customers in LEO. Ax-3 will be the first commercial spaceflight mission made up of government and ESA-sponsored national astronauts. Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravcı will be the first-ever Turkish astronaut and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt will be the first ESA astronaut to fly on a commercial space mission.

Ax-3 is the third of several proposed Axiom Space human spaceflight missions, and a critical step along the journey toward Axiom Station, the world’s first commercial space station.  

The Ax-3 live webcast for docking will begin at 2:30 a.m. ET on Saturday, Jan. 20. Watch the crew arrive at the ISS live at axiomspace.com, spacex.com/launches, x.com/@SpaceX, NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency’s website. The Ax-3 webcast will cover the vehicle’s approach and docking through crew arrival on the space station, where they will be greeted by NASA’s Expedition crew during an arrival ceremony and officially begin the Ax-3 mission on board.

Click here for #Ax3 mission updates and follow along on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.

MEDIA ADVISORY: Axiom Space to Hold Pre-Launch Press Conference

Axiom Space will hold a virtual pre-launch press conference at 8:00 p.m. ET on Jan. 16, one day ahead of the Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) launch. Participants will include leaders from Axiom Space, NASA, SpaceX, and the U.S. Space Force.

The Ax-3 mission is targeted to launch on Jan. 17, 2024, at 5:11 p.m. ET. A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch the Ax-3 crew aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Once docked, the Axiom Space astronauts plan to spend up to 14 days aboard the orbiting laboratory implementing a full mission comprised of microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements . 

Ax-3 will be the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the ISS, including crewmembers 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.

AX-3 PRE-LAUNCH PRESS CONFERENCE
Tuesday, Jan. 16 at 8:00PM ET (Approximately one hour after the LRR)
Participants include:

• Derek Hassmann, Chief of Mission Integration and Operations, Axiom Space

• Angela Hart, Manager, Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program, NASA

• Dana Weigel, Deputy Manager, International Space Station Program, NASA

• Benji Reed, Senior Director of Human Spaceflight Programs, SpaceX

• Brian Cizek, Launch Weather Officer, 45th Weather Squadron, U.S. Space Force

Register here for the teleconference: https://axiomspace.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_t4NpW_vgRDCZkHYbT3IBZQ

Media must register to participate in this briefing and must RSVP by 12:00 p.m. ET on Jan. 15. After registering reporters will receive a confirmation email containing information about how to join.

On Jan.17 starting at 3:15 p.m. ET, the launch webcast will follow the journey of the four-person, all-European Ax-3 crew as they prepare to liftoff from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s KSC in Florida at 5:11 p.m. ET. The webcast will continue until roughly 20 minutes after launch with stunning views of the spacecraft traveling to the ISS. Watch live at axiomspace.com, spacex.com/launches, x.com/@SpaceX or NASA+.

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

Updated: 1/15/2024

Watch the Crew Countdown to Launch Press Conference

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

Axiom Space held a virtual press conference with the astronauts of Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) to highlight their mission readiness and objectives. The Ax-3 crew participated from quarantine in Florida, as they make final preparations ahead of their launch on Jan. 17 at 5:11 p.m. ET.

Ax-3 will be the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to launch to the International Space Station (ISS)—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 the European Space Agency.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch the Ax-3 crew aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the ISS from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crew will dock to the space station at approximately 5:15 a.m. ET on Jan. 19.  Once docked, the Ax-3 astronauts plan to spend their time aboard the orbiting laboratory for 14 days implementing a full mission comprised of microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements.

Click here or below to watch the press conference.

MEDIA ADVISORY: Axiom Space to Provide Live Ax-3 Mission Coverage

Joint webcast coverage with NASA and SpaceX will feature an in-depth mission overview ahead of and through launch and during docking

Axiom Space, SpaceX, and NASA have updated the live mission coverage schedule for Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3), the company’s third commercial astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

The Ax-3 crew will launch aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the ISS from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Jan. 18 at 4:49 p.m. ET. The crew will dock to the space station at approximately 5:45 a.m. ET on Jan. 20. Once docked, the Ax-3 astronauts plan to spend their time aboard the orbiting laboratory for up to 14 days implementing a full mission comprised of microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach events.

Ax-3 will be the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the ISS— 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 the European Space Agency.

Coverage of the Ax-3 launch will be available as follows (all times Eastern):

Launch Webcast Begins
Thursday, Jan. 18 at 2:40 p.m. ET

The joint webcast will follow the journey of the four-person, all-European Ax-3 crew as they prepare to liftoff from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s KSC in Florida at 4:49 p.m. ET. The webcast will continue until roughly 20 minutes after launch with stunning views of the spacecraft traveling to the ISS. Watch live at axiomspace.com, spacex.com/launches, x.com/@SpaceX, or on NASA+.

Dragon In-Flight Event
TBD (will confirm no later than 15 minutes prior to the event start time)

Pending crew schedule and ground station coverage, the Ax-3 crew will participate in an in-flight event from the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. Watch live at axiomspace.com or x.com/@SpaceX.

Docking Coverage
Saturday, Jan. 20
4:00 a.m. ET (approximately) – Webcast begins
5:45 a.m. ET (approximately) – Docking
6:45 a.m. ET (approximately) – Hatch opening
7:35 a.m. ET (approximately) – Crew welcome ceremony 

The Ax-3 live webcast will begin approximately two hours in advance of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft docking with the ISS. Watch the crew arrive at the ISS live at axiomspace.com, spacex.com/launches, x.com/@SpaceX, NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency’s website. The Ax-3 webcast will cover events as the crew docks to the ISS and is greeted by NASA’s Expedition Crew for the welcome ceremony. This will begin their up to 14-day mission on the orbiting laboratory conducting microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements. 

The window to submit media credentials has closed. Reporters who have been approved for credentials will receive notice and further guidance from Axiom Space.

This advisory will be updated online as more information becomes available.

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

Updated on Jan. 20, 2024

Axiom Space Flight Readiness Review Complete, Ax-3 Proceeds to Next Mission Milestone

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

Today, Axiom Space successfully completed its internal Flight Readiness Review (FRR) for the Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3), moving the crew one step closer to their Jan. 17 launch. The review evaluated company and crew readiness in support of the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch the Ax-3 crew aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the ISS from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Jan. 17 at 5:11 p.m. ET. The crew will dock to the space station at approximately 5:15 a.m. ET on Jan. 19. Once docked, the Ax-3 astronauts plan to spend 14 days aboard the orbiting laboratory implementing a full mission comprised of microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements.

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 the European Space Agency.

The next mission milestone will be the Launch Readiness Review (LRR) on Tuesday, Jan. 16 with leaders from Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX. During the LRR, participants will discuss the Falcon 9 and Dragon spacecraft, mission hardware, and readiness for launch. Approximately one hour after the conclusion of that review, the team will hold a pre-launch media teleconference to answer any final questions from the press prior to the mission. More details to follow when available.

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.

MEDIA ADVISORY: Axiom Space to Hold Crew Press Conference Ahead of Ax-3 Mission

Axiom Space will hold a virtual press conference with the astronauts of Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) to highlight their mission readiness and objectives. During the event, the Ax-3 crew will be in quarantine in Florida making final preparations ahead of the launch on Jan. 17 at 5:11 p.m. ET.  

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

As part of Ax-3, Türkiye is sending its first astronaut to space in a larger effort to expand the nation’s space exploration capabilities and establish a national human spaceflight program. Ax-3 will also be the first commercial spaceflight mission for an ESA-sponsored astronaut. For Italy, the Ax-3 mission represents a whole-of-country effort to expand its access to space for the purposes of research, development, and innovation. 

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 the European Space Agency (ESA).

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch the Ax-3 crew aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the ISS from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crew will dock to the space station at approximately 5:15 a.m. ET on Jan. 19. 

AX-3 COUNTDOWN TO LAUNCH PRESS CONFERENCE
Thursday, Jan. 11 at 10AM CT/11AM ET

Participants include:

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

• Walter Villadei, Ax-3 Pilot, Italy

• Alper Gezeravcı, Ax-3 Mission Specialist, Türkiye

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

This press conference will be held virtually. Media must register to participate and RSVP by noon on Jan. 10.

Register here for the crew countdown to launch press conference: https://axiomspace.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bW0oYhBdQxa8VKCB0O_QFQ 

After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about how to join.

The next mission milestone will be the Launch Readiness Review (LRR) on Tuesday, Jan. 16 with leaders from Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX. During the LRR, participants will discuss the Falcon 9 and Dragon spacecraft, mission hardware, and readiness for launch. Approximately one hour after the conclusion of that meeting, the team will hold a pre-launch media teleconference to answer any final questions from the press prior to the mission. More details to follow when available. 

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

Ax-3 Crew Completes SpaceX Training, Prepares for Launch

SpaceX Dragon training is an indispensable component of the preparation for the Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) crew. This training equips astronauts with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the spacecraft, its systems, and its capabilities. During the rigorous training regimen, the Ax-3 crew learns about Dragon’s systems, gaining insights into what to anticipate from the moment of launch through orbital insertion. This training encompasses vital knowledge of launch escape procedures, ensuring their readiness to respond promptly and effectively for any contingency scenario.

The Ax-3 crew undertakes extensive training on rendezvous and docking operations, mastering how the Dragon spacecraft will travel to the International Space Station (ISS). They acquire the skills to secure a safe environment within the Dragon spacecraft and learn the procedures for a careful and swift undocking if the situation demands it.

The training process encompasses various approaches, including classroom sessions, simulator lessons, and full crew scenarios conducted within a meticulously designed Dragon mockup. To enhance the authenticity of the experience, the Ax-3 crew trains in a SpaceX suit that is comparable to the actual flight suit, mastering the art of entering the spacecraft and handling the suit's pressurization procedures.

Successfully completing SpaceX Dragon training represents a significant milestone for the Ax-3 astronauts. It serves as a critical assurance that they are well-prepared to embark on their journey to the ISS and, most importantly, return home safely.

Ax-3 Crew Stands Mission Ready, NASA Training Complete

The countdown to Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) has reached a pivotal moment as the crewmembers have successfully completed their rigorous training at NASA's Johnson Space Center. This milestone stands as a testament to their dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to embark on a historic journey to the International Space Station (ISS). As their training has wrapped up, the Ax-3 crew now gears up for the final preparations before their slated launch in January 2024, marking a significant leap forward in commercial low-Earth orbit activity.

NASA's comprehensive training program is renowned for its intensity and thoroughness, ensuring that astronauts are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge for their mission on the ISS. The Ax-3 crew underwent a series of simulations, technical drills, and mission-specific training to prepare for the unique demands of their upcoming mission. From payloads training to practicing emergency protocols, the crew honed their expertise to operate seamlessly in the microgravity environment of the ISS.

The completion of this training signifies not only an impressive accomplishment for each crew member but also for the collective mission towards advancing human progress in space. Ax-3 represents growth in commercial space exploration and a testament to international and commercial collaboration, as the first all-European commercial astronauts prepare to join those from different nations aboard the ISS, fostering camaraderie and shared knowledge beyond earthly boundaries. With the completion of NASA training, the Ax-3 crew stands ready to embrace the discoveries that await them in the low-Earth orbit.

Axiom Space Research Partners to Prioritize Biological Investigations During Ax-3

Credit: UC San Diego Sanford Stem Cell Institute

Microgravity enables opportunities for novel research as it produces changes in physical phenomena and biological systems that are not achievable on Earth. Research partnerships with Axiom Space allow researchers to access microgravity for fundamental and applied research, which helps build a foundation for ongoing research programs in low-Earth orbit (LEO) that can benefit human health and a variety of industries on Earth.

As for previous missions, Axiom Space has partnered with a diverse range of leading scientific organizations and institutions to continue monitoring the effects of spaceflight on the human body and explore opportunities for applied research in space that will  help develop new medical treatments on Earth.

Continuing on from Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2), biological investigations are again a strong focus for Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3). In partnership with Axiom Space, researchers from the National Stem Cell Foundation and the Sanford Stem Cell Institute aim to investigate how microgravity affects stem cell development by gathering data that will inform on the development of certain cancers and neurological disorders. Axiom Space’s ongoing partnership with the Translational Research Institute for Space Health (TRISH) continues to explore how spaceflight affects the human body, with results expected to benefit all future space travelers by informing the development of medical countermeasures or treatments to keep humans safe and healthy as we continue to explore life off Earth.

Axiom Space Research Partnerships on Ax-3:

National Stem Cell Foundation
In the Cosmic Brain Organoids project, Axiom Space is partnering with the National Stem Cell Foundation to investigate the effects of microgravity on neural stem cells. The goal of the research is to assess how microgravity affects the cells and identify novel cellular pathways that offer opportunities for development of new therapeutic interventions for neurodegenerative diseases on Earth. The project will generate brain organoids (small 3D aggregates of neural cells) using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from patients with Parkinson's Disease and primary progressive Multiple Sclerosis. These organoids can be used to explore how the human nervous system develops or starts to degenerate.

Sanford Stem Cell Institute
In an ongoing partnership with Axiom Space, the Cancer in LEO project from the Sanford Stem Cell Institute is studying tumor organoids in microgravity with the aim of identifying the early warning signs of cancer for prediction and prevention of the disease. 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, which aims to use microgravity to further understand stem cells, cancer, and aging-related effects in space to develop better prediction of disease and therapeutics for patients on Earth.

Credit: TRISH | TRISH Senior biomedical engineer Jimmy Wu (left) and TRISH chief medical officer Dr. Emmanuel Urquieta (right) administer a field test conducted before and after spaceflight to test a spaceflight participants' ability to readapt after the experiencing microgravity. This project is part of TRISH's essential measures.

Translational Research Institute for Space Health (TRISH) Essential Measures
Following research conducted on Axiom Mission 1 (Ax-1) and Ax-2, Axiom Space continues to work with TRISH to gather data on how spaceflight affects the human body by using biometric monitors to give readouts on physiological systems, completing questionnaires that assess cognitive and behavioral performance, and performing tasks that measure balance and space motion sickness. This portfolio of projects helps us further understand how humans adapt to space, specifically in the context of commercial spaceflight participants. Results can also help inform Earth-based research into eye or movement disorders and the cognitive and emotional impacts of isolated, confined, or stressful environments.