The Ax-2 crew has successfully returned to Earth after spending eight days aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The all-private astronaut mission, which included Axiom Space’s Director of Human Spaceflight and Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot John Shoffner, and Mission Specialists Ali Alqarni and Rayyanah Barnawi, made history on many fronts. Peggy Whitson is now the first female commander of a private space mission, adding to her already impressive record as the first female commander of the ISS and holding the standing record for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut. Ali Alqarni and Rayyanah Barnawi are the first Saudi astronauts to visit the ISS, with Rayyanah Barnawi also becoming the first Saudi female to go to space. Additionally, John Shoffner became the first person from the U.S. state of Alaska to fly to space.
During their time aboard the ISS, the Ax-2 crew conducted more than 20 research experiments, including serving as research subjects to better understand the impacts of microgravity on the human body. They also established methods for the utility of novel technologies that could be used for future human spaceflight pursuits and improving life on Earth. The crew also carried out over 20 STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math) engagements.
Axiom Space, the commercial space industry’s only full-service orbital mission provider, conducted end-to-end crewed missions to the International Space Station. Their services include training and flying private astronauts, access to training facilities and instructors, hardware and safety certification, and operational on-orbit management. Candidates for flight complete Axiom Space’s rigorous training curriculum over many months in preparation to live and conduct meaningful work in space. The expert team at Axiom Space is helping nations and organizations build human spaceflight programs, develop astronaut selection programs, and provide the expertise needed to expand the international community of space explorers to a larger and more diverse representation of humanity. To watch the replay of the Ax-2 crew’s splashdown, visit www.axiomspace.com.
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