SpaceX, the private space company founded by Elon Musk, has achieved another significant milestone with the successful launch of its second private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on May 21, 2023. This marks the 10th crew launch in total, including both SpaceX and NASA missions. Operated by Axiom Space, a Houston-based company with the vision of establishing a commercial space station in low-Earth orbit, the mission is named Ax-2.
The Ax-2 crew comprises four members, each bringing unique expertise to the mission. Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut and the first woman to command a private spaceflight, leads the team. Accompanying her are John Shoffner, an American entrepreneur and pilot, Ali AlQarni, a Saudi fighter pilot, and Rayyanah Barnawi, a Saudi stem cell researcher who will become the first Saudi woman in space.
The crew embarked on their journey from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, propelled by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Following a successful launch, the rocket’s first stage returned to Earth, landing safely, while the Crew Dragon capsule named Freedom continued its journey to orbit. The capsule is scheduled to dock with the ISS on May 22, where the Ax-2 crew will join seven other astronauts for a weeklong stay.
The Ax-2 mission represents a significant step towards fostering commercial activity and innovation in space. Axiom Space, in collaboration with NASA, aims to continue this trend with two more missions, Ax-3 and Ax-4, scheduled for launch in 2024. Moreover, Axiom Space plans to attach its own modules to the ISS in 2025, further expanding the station’s capabilities.
During their time on the ISS, the Ax-2 crew will conduct various experiments and engage in activities to advance scientific knowledge. They will also actively share their experiences with the public through social media and educational events. Additionally, the astronauts will have the privilege of admiring the breathtaking views of Earth from the orbiting laboratory, which orbits at an altitude of approximately 250 miles (400 kilometers).
The success of the Ax-2 mission is a remarkable achievement for SpaceX, Axiom Space, and Saudi Arabia, as well as for the individual crew members—Whitson, Shoffner, AlQarni, and Barnawi. It represents a testament to the increasing opportunities and diversity in human spaceflight, showcasing the potential for collaboration and exploration beyond our home planet.
