Axiom Space’s Ax-4 Mission to ISS with SpaceX Postponed to Spring 2025

NASA officials announced a delay for Axiom Space’s next astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), now scheduled for spring 2025 instead of the initially planned October 2024.

The mission, named Ax-4, requires additional time to navigate the necessary interagency approval processes, as detailed by NASA on August 9. The delay stems from the pending authorization of the Ax-4 crew by the Multilateral Crew Operations Panel, which confirms the eligibility of all astronauts visiting the ISS, including those from Axiom Space.

Axiom Space, a Houston-based company known for conducting private missions to the ISS, has yet to comment publicly on the delay. However, preparations for the mission had been underway, with crew training starting in early August in Houston. The mission is expected to span a few weeks, involving both Axiom’s own astronauts and other privately funded space travelers.

Historically, Axiom’s missions, including the upcoming Ax-4, utilize SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rockets and Dragon capsules, continuing the collaboration between the two space industry leaders. Ax-4 is notably led by Peggy Whitson, a veteran NASA astronaut who has previously commanded an Axiom mission. The crew also includes pilot Shubhanshu Shukla from India, Polish mission specialist Sławosz Uznański of the European Space Agency (ESA), and Hungarian mission specialist Tibor Kapu.

The announcement marks a significant development in the timeline for Axiom’s ongoing contributions to commercial spaceflight, as they work through the complexities of international space travel regulations and partnerships.