SpaceX and Axiom Space Set to Launch Third Private Astronaut Mission to ISS
All-European Crew to Conduct Over 30 Scientific Experiments During Two-Week Stay
- SpaceX and Axiom Space are set to launch the Ax-3 mission, the third private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), on January 18, 2024.
- The all-European crew includes Commander Michael López-Alegría, Pilot Walter Villadei of Italy, and mission specialists Marcus Wandt from Sweden and Alper Gezeravci from Turkey.
- The launch was initially scheduled for January 17, but was delayed to allow SpaceX more time for comprehensive analysis and rocket and capsule checkouts.
- During their two-week stay at the ISS, the crew will conduct over 30 scientific experiments, primarily devoted to learning more about the effects of weightlessness on various physical and cognitive parameters.
- This mission is seen as a significant step in the development of private space travel and the establishment of commercial space stations.