Countdown to Liftoff: A Historic Mission to the International Space Station

🚀The AX2 mission is the result of years of effort by Axiom Space to expand opportunities for private citizens and nations to conduct research and activities in space.

🌎The AX2 crew includes two Saudi Arabian astronauts, representing the first Saudi national astronaut class and marking a significant milestone for the country's space program.

🛰️During the 10-day mission, the crew will conduct a wide range of research experiments to further our understanding of human responses to microgravity and contribute to future space exploration.

👩‍🚀Retired NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, who holds multiple records for time in space and spacewalks, is the commander of the AX2 mission.

🌌The AX2 mission represents another step towards the vision of Axiom Station, the world's first private space station currently under construction.

What is the goal of the AX2 mission?

—The goal of the AX2 mission is to expand opportunities for private citizens and nations to conduct research and activities in space, as well as to contribute to our understanding of human responses to microgravity.

Who are the members of the AX2 crew?

—The AX2 crew includes retired NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, two Saudi Arabian astronauts, and a Steam education advocate and biomedical scientist.

What records does Peggy Whitson hold?

—Peggy Whitson holds multiple records for time spent in space and spacewalks, making her one of the most experienced astronauts in history.

What is Axiom Station?

—Axiom Station is the world's first private space station currently under construction. It aims to provide opportunities for research, manufacturing, and space tourism.

What research will be conducted during the mission?

—The AX2 crew will conduct a wide range of research experiments to further our understanding of human responses to microgravity, including biomedical studies and scientific investigations.

12:17The AX2 mission is set to launch, marking a historic moment in private space exploration.

13:27The AX2 crew includes two Saudi Arabian astronauts, representing a significant milestone for the country's space program.

15:47Retired NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, with extensive experience in space and research, is the commander of the AX2 mission.

16:38The AX2 mission is part of Axiom Space's vision to expand opportunities for private citizens and nations to conduct research and activities in space.

21:23Family and friends send their well wishes to the AX2 crew as they prepare for launch.

24:03The weather forecast for the launch looks favorable, with a 25 percent chance of violating launch conditions.

25:22The SpaceX team provides an overview of the launch operations and the timeline leading up to liftoff.

26:20The countdown continues, and everything is on track for an on-time launch.