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#25000171 at 2026-09-02 17:34:01 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #30522: Breaks Over Edition

ESA, NASA Astronauts Complete Navigation and Science Spacewalk Outside Station
September 1, 2026 3:58PM

NASA astronaut Jessica Meir and ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Sophie Adenot concluded their spacewalk outside the International Space Station at 3:29 p.m. EDT.

During the 6-hour, 49-minute spacewalk, Meir and Adenot installed a new retroflector on the forward port of the space station's Harmony module to support spacecraft navigation during rendezvous and docking operations.

The duo replaced a high-definition camera on the station's truss and completed a swab of the space station's exterior for microorganisms.

They also partially completed work to install jumper cables for electrical systems and started work to prepare for the replacement of the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer's heat-rejecting radiator on a future spacewalk.

Mission Control deferred installing the remaining guide studs for the spectrometer's replacement radiator so engineers can develop a plan to finish the work during a future spacewalk.

As the crew fell behind the timeline, the mission control team also shifted completion of the remaining jumper cables and other noncritical tasks to a later date.

During the spacewalk, Adenot experienced some mobility issues with her left arm. Meir took a look at Adenot's suit and determined the glove heater harness was likely getting caught and causing limited movement in the left shoulder joint. Unzipping the joint seemed to resolve the issue ahead of the crew entering the airlock.

U.S. spacewalk 99 was Meir's seventh and Adenot's third. Meir now ranks third all-time among woman at NASA for total spacewalks, behind Peggy Whitson (10) and Suni Williams (9).

It also was the 284th spacewalk in support of space station assembly, maintenance, and upgrades.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2026/09/01/esa-nasa-astronauts-complete-navigation-and-science-spacewalk-outside-station/
https://x.com/esa/status/2094872868014227706
https://x.com/esa/status/2094882722560761947
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09WgH9SPCM0 (World's First Live 4K Spacewalk | Sophie Adenot Outside the ISS)

moar ESA

https://x.com/Soph_astro/status/2095175684184297889
https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Human_and_Robotic_Exploration/ESA_s_first_lunar_rover_rolls_forward
https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/FLEX_and_Sentinel-3C_sealed_within_Vega-C_fairing

#23373729 at 2025-07-24 14:49:42 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28484: How You Introduce Evidence Legally Edition

NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim, Axiom Mission 4 Commander Peggy Whitson Conduct Research in Space
Jul 23, 2025

In this photo from June 28, 2025, Expedition 73 flight engineer Jonny Kim and former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space Peggy Whitson work together inside the International Space Station's Destiny laboratory module setting up hardware for cancer research.

The hardware is used to culture patient-derived cancer cells, model their growth in microgravity, and test a state-of-the-art fluorescence microscope.
Results of this study may lead to earlier cancer detection methods, development of advanced cancer treatments, and promote future stem cell research in space.

Whitson returned to Earth on July 15, 2025, with fellow Axiom Mission 4 crew members ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland, and Hungarian to Orbit (HUNOR) astronaut Tibor Kapu of Hungary. They completed about two and a half weeks in space.

https://www.nasa.gov/image-article/nasa-astronaut-jonny-kim-axiom-mission-4-commander-Peggy-Whitson-conduct-research-in-space/

#23329605 at 2025-07-15 15:55:39 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28433: Dark to Light Edition

Ax-4 Crew Splashes Down Completing First Mission to the International Space Station for India, Poland, and Hungary
July 15, 2025

After undocking from the International Space Station on Monday, July 14 at 6:15 a.m. CT, the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew safely splashed down off the coast of California aboard SpaceX Dragon "Grace" on Tuesday, July 15 at 4:31 a.m. CT.
The Ax-4 crewmembers, led by Commander Peggy Whitson of the U.S., includes Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India, Mission Specialist S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland, and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
For each of these countries, this mission has realized the return to human spaceflight, with all three nations sending astronauts to space for the first time in more than 40 years.
Additionally, this marks the first time astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary have conducted a mission on board the International Space Station.

"The Ax-4 mission is a powerful demonstration of what's possible through commercial space," said Tejpaul Bhatia, CEO of Axiom Space.
"By enabling astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary to carry out scientific research aboard the space station, we are supporting these nations in their contributions to human spaceflight.
This mission reflects Axiom Space's vision of a thriving low-Earth orbit economy, where access to space is no longer limited to a few, but extends to all who seek to explore, discover, and innovate."

Over the course of their 18-day mission aboard the orbiting laboratory, the Ax-4 crew conducted more than 60 scientific experiments across a wide range of disciplines, including life sciences, materials research, Earth observation, and technology demonstrations.
These investigations represented the interests of 31 countries, underscoring the mission's global impact in advancing science and innovation in microgravity.

In addition to the scientific research, the crew participated in over 20 outreach events, connecting with a diverse global audience that included government officials, students, researchers, the media, and aspiring astronauts.
These engagements served as a platform to share the mission's goals, inspire future generations, and highlight the importance of international collaboration.

Ax-4 is the fourth in Axiom Space's series of human spaceflight missions to the International Space Station.
As the only private company to have successfully executed private astronaut missions to the orbiting laboratory, Axiom Space has expanded access to low-Earth orbit by enabling governments, academic institutions, private organizations, and individuals to engage in research, technology demonstrations, and educational outreach in space.
In parallel, these missions serve as a precursor for Axiom Space's long-term vision-the launch and operation of Axiom Station, the world's first commercial space station.

Axiom Space's previous missions have included astronauts from the United States, Spain, Israel, Canada, Saudi Arabia, Italy, T?rkiye, and Sweden, with support from the European Space Agency (ESA).
With Ax-4, Axiom Space continues to build a foundation for the future of commercial space, demonstrating the importance of international participation.

https://www.axiomspace.com/mission-blog/ax4-splashes-down
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEgeSEsNbKI

#23325108 at 2025-07-14 15:45:05 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28428: Future Proves Past "BUCKLE UP" Edition

SpaceX Axiom-4 mission to the ISS: Live updates
July 14, 2025

SpaceX has been launching astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) other other orbital destinations and returning them to Earth for NASA and private companies since 2020.
The company's current astronaut mission, Axiom-4, is scheduled launch on June 11.

Crew-10 launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, in Florida, on March 12, and ferried NASA astronauts Anne McClain, Nichole Ayers, and mission specialists JAXA astronaut Takuya Onishi and Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov to the ISS, where their Dragon is currently docked.

Axiom-4 will join them and other ISS Expedition 73 crew members on orbit for a mission expected to last about 14 days. Ax-4 is led by former NASA astronaut and Axiom's director of human spaceflight Peggy Whitson.
She is joined by pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India, mission specialist S?awosz Uzna?ski of Poland and the European Space Agency (ESA), and mission specialist Tibor Kapu, from Hungary.

cont.

https://www.space.com/news/live/spacex-crew-dragon-mission-updates
https://www.axiomspace.com/category/ax4-mission

#23319571 at 2025-07-13 14:11:39 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28422: Never Forget Why We Q Edition

Watch Coverage of Ax-4 Crew Departure from the International Space Station
July 11, 2025

Axiom Space, NASA, and SpaceX will provide live, joint coverage of the hatch closure and undocking of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew from the International Space Station as they begin their journey back to Earth.
Pending favorable weather conditions, the four-person international crew is scheduled to undock from the forward-facing port of the station's Harmony module no earlier than Monday, July 14, at 7:05 a.m. ET.
The crew will begin their journey home aboard SpaceX Dragon "Grace," with splashdown off the coast of California.

Mission teams will continue to closely monitor weather conditions at potential splashdown sites to ensure a safe and successful recovery of both the spacecraft and crew.
Coverage of the Ax-4 crew, Dragon's re-entry, and splashdown will be available on axiom.space/live and SpaceX, beginning about an hour ahead of splashdown.
More details will be provided closer to undocking; you can find updates here.

The Ax-4 crewmembers, led by Commander Peggy Whitson of the U.S., includes Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India, Mission Specialist S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland, and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
For each of these countries, this mission has realized the return to human spaceflight, with all three nations sending astronauts to space for the first time in more than 40 years.
Additionally, this marks the first time astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary have conducted a mission on board the International Space Station.

Ax-4 crew return coverage will include three separate segments-hatch closure, undocking, and splashdown. All segments will be available at axiom.space/live.
Hatch closure and undocking coverage is as follows (all times Eastern and subject to change):

MONDAY, JULY 14
4:30 a.m. ET - Coverage for hatch closure begins (axiom.space/live, NASA+)
4:55 a.m. ET - Final crew ingress followed by hatch closing
6:45 a.m. ET - Coverage resumes for undocking (axiom.space/live, NASA+, SpaceX)
7:05 a.m. ET - Undocking

https://www.axiomspace.com/mission-blog/ax4-departure-coverage
https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-to-provide-coverage-of-axiom-mission-4-departure-from-station/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xn_WnKyp1E0

#23315153 at 2025-07-12 15:17:12 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28417: Q Trust the Plan 60/40 What Don't Anons Know Q Edition

Ax-4 Go for Monday Undocking, Finalizing Research
July 11, 2025

Mission managers have given the "go" for the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew to board the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and undock from the International Space Station's space-facing port on the Harmony module at 7:05 a.m. EDT on Monday, July 14.
Ax-4 Commander Peggy Whitson will lead Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla, and Mission Specialists S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski, and Tibor Kapu back to Earth completing a two-and-a-half-week research mission aboard the orbiting lab.

The Ax-4 private quartet had a full schedule on Friday first collecting blood samples for analysis as part of its biomedical research.
Next, microalgae was studied as a food source for crews and a key part of biological life support systems on spacecraft. Nanomaterials were also investigated as a basis for constructing wearable devices that comfortably monitor crew health.

Ax-4 will go into Saturday finalizing science experiments including an electrical muscle stimulation study, testing suit fabrics that promote thermal comfort while exercising, and filming crew activities for a behavioral health study.
On Sunday, they will begin packing science gear filled with research samples and loading personal items and other cargo inside Dragon for retrieval on Earth.

Station Flight Engineer Anne McClain from NASA began helping the Ax-4 crew turn its attention to Monday's undocking gathering hardware and other items for packing inside Dragon.
McClain also continued assisting the private crewmates as they kept up their science investigations using space station resources.

NASA Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers began her day in the Columbus laboratory module also assisting the Ax-4 crew spinning the astronaut's blood samples in a centrifuge and stowing them in a science freezer for preservation.
She later worked inside the Quest airlock transferring water in a pair of spacesuits. NASA Flight Engineer Jonny Kim assisted Ayers with the blood sample processing then spent the rest of his day inspecting electronics gear and swapping computer cables.

Station Commander Takuya Onishi of JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) started his day processing saliva samples for analysis then recording his sleep experience for a computer questionnaire.
He later worked in the Tranquility module replacing orbital plumbing hardware before deactivating and stowing a microscope in the Kibo laboratory module.

Roscosmos Flight Engineers Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritskiy took turns pedaling on an exercise cycle while wearing electrodes for a physical fitness evaluation.
Researchers will use the data to understand the energy requirements crew members need for strenuous activities such as spacewalks.
Fight Engineer Kirill Peskov replaced fire extinguishers in the Poisk, Rassvet, and Zvezda modules then checked computer hardware that supports the European robotic arm.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/07/11/ax-4-go-for-monday-undocking-finalizing-research/
https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-to-provide-coverage-of-axiom-mission-4-departure-from-station/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkUmeVlocCU

#23300365 at 2025-07-09 14:30:23 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28400: SES Will Fall, 14TB, Flight Logs: Military Is The Only Way Edition

Tuesday's Station Research Advancing Crew Health as Crew Unpacks Cargo
July 8, 2025

Biomedical research topped the science schedule aboard the International Space Station on Tuesday as the Expedition 73 and Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crews explored cellular immunity and electrical muscle stimulation.
Cargo transfers and exercise gear maintenance rounded out the day for the orbital residents.

Station Commander Takuya Onishi from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) began his shift continuing his space biology studies and collecting his blood and saliva samples for processing and stowage.
He spun the specimens in a centrifuge then placed the blood samples in a science freezer. Next, he stowed the saliva samples in the Kubik incubator.
The samples will be analyzed to understand microgravity's effect on cellular immunity, monitor stress-related immune reactions in space, and learn how to treat space-caused immunity symptoms.

NASA Flight Engineers Jonny Kim, Nichole Ayers, and Anne McClain spent their day on a variety of orbital lab maintenance and crew support activities. Kim focused primarily on orbital plumbing as he drained and replaced tanks in the Tranquility module.
Ayers checked power components and cables inside the Destiny laboratory module then deactivated and stowed a microscope. McClain took a cognition test on a laptop computer and continued supporting the Ax-4 crew during their busy research schedule.

Veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson and her Ax-4 crewmates Shubhanshu Shukla, S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski, and Tibor Kapu kept up their numerous space investigations throughout the orbital lab.
The private astronauts in their second full week on the station explored electrical muscle stimulation to enhance space workouts and counter muscle atrophy in microgravity.
Other Ax-4 experiments on Tuesday looked at suit fabrics that promote thermal comfort when exercising in weightlessness, crew behavioral health, and space agriculture.

Roscosmos Flight Engineers Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritskiy spent their Tuesday shift working together in the Zvezda service module repairing and placing components on a treadmill, one of two inside the space station including the COLBERT treadmill located in Tranquility. Flight Engineer Kirill Peskov started his day analyzing biological samples from his cosmonaut crewmates then serviced video recording gear.
He wrapped up his shift transferring water from the newly arrived Progress 92 cargo craft and unloading some of its three tons of crew supplies and hardware.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/07/08/tuesdays-station-research-advancing-crew-health-as-crew-unpacks-cargo/

#23294795 at 2025-07-08 14:26:06 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28394: Delta Day Storm Edition

Week Starts with Muscle Stimulation and Cellular Research During Cargo Transfers
July 7, 2025

The Expedition 73 crew kicked off the week studying electrical muscle stimulation and cellular immunity to protect crew health in microgravity.
The orbital residents are also unpacking a new cargo craft and continuing to support the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew aboard the International Space Station.

NASA Flight Engineers Nichole Ayers and Anne McClain joined each other in the Columbus laboratory module on Monday and explored stimulating muscles with small electrical signals to help prevent space-caused muscle atrophy.
Ayers wore electrodes as McClain operated biomedical gear sending electrical impulses to her legs simulating load forces on the ground.
Researchers are exploring electrical muscle stimulation to supplement daily space workouts and keep astronauts fit in weightlessness.

Ayers then partnered with NASA Flight Engineer Jonny Kim assisting him as he inspected hatches in the Quest airlock and the Harmony module and downlinked photographs for further analysis by engineers on the ground.
Kim began his day in the Tranquility module replacing orbital plumbing components then switched over to the Destiny laboratory module and swapped out research hardware.

Station Commander Takuya Onishi from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration) began his shift with a standard cognition test then documented his meals and medication for the day.
Afterward, Onishi set up computer hardware that supports the advanced resistive exercise device then collected his saliva samples for stowage in the Kubik incubator and later analysis to study cellular changes in microgravity.

Before she assisted Ayers, McClain serviced spacesuit life support gear then checked cable connections on a computer that supports the MUSES commercial Earth observation hardware.
McClain also worked throughout the day supporting the Ax-4 crew members as they conducted their private research.

Veteran astronaut and Ax-4 Commander Peggy Whitson spent Monday assisting her Ax-4 crewmates Shubhanshu Shukla, S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski, and Tibor Kapu during their busy day of space experiments.
The quartet explored a wide array of subjects including space agriculture to provide fresh food for crews, how blood circulates in space, a human-computer interface, and more on Monday.

The new Progress 92 cargo craft is being unloaded today after its docking to the Poisk module on Saturday, July 5. Roscosmos Flight Engineers Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritskiy opened Progress' hatch on Sunday and continued working into Monday transferring some of its three tons of food, fuel, and supplies into the orbital outpost. Ryzhikov later activated a camera pointed at Earth that students will remotely control for a weeklong observation session.
Flight Engineer Kirill Peskov assisted his cosmonaut crewmates with the cargo work, worked on computer electronics gear, and photographed the external condition of Poisk with the Progress 92 docked to it.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/07/07/week-starts-with-muscle-stimulation-and-cellular-research-during-cargo-transfers/

#23275664 at 2025-07-04 15:30:58 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28374: Happy Independence Day Edition

'We are proud to serve our country, both on Earth and in space': NASA astronauts beam home July 4 message from ISS
July 4, 2025

Three NASA astronauts living aboard the International Space Station (ISS) marked Independence Day with a few heartfelt words for their compatriots here on Earth.
It was written by the American members of the station's current Expedition 73 mission, Nichole Ayers, Jonny Kim and Anne McClain.

All three are members of the U.S military - Ayers is a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force, McClain is an Army colonel and Kim is a lieutenant commander in the Navy, as well as a former SEAL - so Independence Day has a special meaning for them.
"This is a special holiday for me. It just reminds us of the freedom that we get to enjoy and that we have enjoyed for so many years," Ayers said in a 160-second video, which was recorded on June 16 but posted by NASA on Thursday (July 3).

"Protecting that freedom is important to all of us here as military officers, but also NASA astronauts," she added. "And we are proud to serve our country, both on Earth and in space."
"For me, the Fourth of July represents the responsibilities that we each have - to whom much is given, much is expected," McClain said.
"Our forefathers gave us the rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, and every generation must protect that for future generations."

Kim said the Fourth of July is a "deep day of reflection" for him, an occasion to remember American ideals and honor the sacrifices of those who have helped uphold them.
"And to those following our mission, the spirit of exploration, just like the spirit of freedom and democracy, is what has made our country so great," he added.

The trio spoke in front of a large American flag, which they had affixed to an ISS module wall. They also provided more patriotic flair toward the end of the video: All three did a celebratory backflip, revealing socks with a stars-and-stripes theme.
Ayers, McClain and Kim aren't the only Americans currently living on the orbiting lab. It also houses record-setting former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, who's now the director of human spaceflight for the Houston-based company Axiom Space.

Whitson is commanding Axiom's four-person Ax-4 mission, which arrived at the ISS on June 26 for a roughly two-week stay.
Her three crewmates are pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India; mission specialist S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski, a European Space Agency astronaut from Poland; and mission specialist Tibor Kapu, who hails from Hungary.
There are four other people on station at the moment as well, all of them members of Expedition 73: cosmonauts Kirill Peskov, Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky, as well as Takuya Onishi of JAXA (the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency).

https://www.space.com/space-exploration/human-spaceflight/we-are-proud-to-serve-our-country-both-on-earth-and-in-space-nasa-astronauts-beam-home-july-4-message-from-iss-video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rbymsx1N35k

#23270370 at 2025-07-03 14:34:55 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28368: Somewhere Over The Rat Cliff's Hangs Clapper, Comey, Brennan Edition

Brain Research Continues on Station Ahead of Cargo Mission Launch
July 2, 2025

Brain research continued aboard the International Space Station on Wednesday as the Expedition 73 and Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crews kept up their ongoing space biology studies.
Meanwhile, a Progress cargo craft counts down to its launch to resupply the orbital residents this weekend.

NASA Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers took her turn today in the Columbus laboratory module wearing neck and chest electrodes measuring oscillations in the blood flow from her brain to the heart for the Drain Brain 2.0 human research experiment.
Similarly, Ax-4 private astronaut Tibor Kapu wore a cap that imaged blood flow in his cerebral artery using doppler ultrasound for the Cerebral Hemodynamics investigation.
Veteran astronaut and Ax-4 Commander Peggy Whitson assisted Kapu with the biomedical hardware and measured his blood pressure inside the Tranquility module.
Both studies are supported by different organizations with the first seeking to prevent space-caused blood clots and the second to protect crew visual processing and perception in microgravity.

Ayers later joined her station crewmates Commander Takuya Onishi of JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) and NASA Flight Engineer Anne McClain for eye checks using high-resolution, near-infrared medical imaging hardware.
McClain led the B Complex optical investigation in the Harmony Module as Ayers and Onishi peered into the ocular device while doctors on the ground examined their optic nerve at the back of the eye in real time.
Researchers are exploring using B vitamin supplements as a method to protect crew vision in microgravity.

NASA Flight Engineer Jonny Kim began his shift inspecting portable emergency hardware including fire extinguishers and breathing masks.
After his lunch period, he joined his Soyuz MS-27 crewmates Sergey Ryzhikov and Sergey Zubritskiy, both flight engineers from Roscosmos, and practiced using respirator masks in the unlikely event of a chemical leak onboard the orbital outpost.

Ryzhikov and Zubritskiy started their shift repairing a Roscosmos treadmill in the Zvezda service module. Ryzhikov also wore virtual reality glasses for a study observing how a crew member's balance and visual perception adjust to microgravity.
Zubritskiy serviced research physics hardware that measures neutron radiation. Flight Engineer Kirill Peskov spent his shift in the orbital outpost's Roscosmos segment servicing orbital plumbing gear and activating Earth observation equipment.

Ax-4 crewmates Shubhanshu Shukla and S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski partnered together in Columbus and studied using near-infrared technology to record brain activity for constructing brain-computer interfaces.
Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski wore a specialized cap connected via Bluetooth to a laptop computer recording his brain activity while Shukla optimized the signal quality and calibrated the hardware.
The pair also recorded and downlinked video of crew activities for the Astronaut Mental Health study. Shukla also looked at muscle cell stem cultures through a microscope to understand the muscle repair process in weightlessness.

The next uncrewed cargo mission, Progress 92, is counting down to its launch at 3:32 p.m. EDT on Thursday from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
Progress 92 is scheduled to dock to the Poisk module at 5:27 p.m. on Saturday delivering about three thousand pounds of food, fuel and supplies for the orbiting lab residents. NASA+ will provide live coverage of both events.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/07/02/brain-research-continues-on-station-ahead-of-cargo-mission-launch/

#23265781 at 2025-07-02 14:40:24 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28362: Wizards N Warlocks Edition

Brain, Cancer, and Biotech Top Science Schedule as Cargo Craft Departs
July 1, 2025

The 11 crew members aboard the International Space Station representing Expedition 73 and Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) returned to their space science duties on Tuesday exploring brain circulation, observing cancer cells, and studying biotechnology, among other investigations.

Station Commander Takuya Onishi from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) attached sensors to his neck and chest measuring how blood flows from the brain to the heart.
Doctors will review the data to understand how blood circulation adapts to weightlessness. Ax-4 crewmates Peggy Whitson and Tibor Kapu also studied cerebral circulation for another experiment designed for their mission.
Whitson assisted Kapu who wore a cap using doppler ultrasound to image blood flow in his cerebral artery while a cuff measured his blood pressure. Doctors will use the results to help protect crew visual processing and perception in microgravity.
Whitson later peered inside a fluorescence microscope at cancer cells to learn how to detect and prevent cancer earlier.

NASA Flight Engineers Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers spent a portion of their shift assisting the Ax-4 crew on Tuesday. McClain helped the private astronauts operate the research hardware throughout the orbital lab and guided their science activities.
Ayers set up a microscope in the Destiny laboratory module that Ax-4 crew member Shubhanshu Shukla used to view how tardigrades, tiny aquatic animals, survive numerous harsh climates including microgravity.
Ax-4 astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski explored using nanomaterials in wearable devices that monitor crew health.

NASA Flight Engineer Jonny Kim began his shift with Onishi collecting blood samples, processing them in a centrifuge, and stowing the specimens in a science freezer for preservation.
Kim later reorganized hardware inside the Harmony module's maintenance work area then installed ventilation system components inside the Quest airlock.

The uncrewed, trash-packed Progress 90 cargo craft ended its stay at the orbital outpost today undocking from the Poisk module at 2:42 p.m. EDT.
It will reenter Earth's atmosphere for a fiery, but safe demise above the south Pacific Ocean completing a seven-month space delivery mission.

Waiting to replace the spacecraft is the Progress 92 cargo craft standing at the launch pad at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The Progress 92 is counting down to its launch at 3:32 p.m. EDT on Thursday.
It will arrive at the orbital lab on Saturday and dock to Poisk at 5:27 p.m. delivering about three thousand pounds of food, fuel and supplies for the orbiting lab residents. NASA+ will provide live coverage of both events.

Roscosmos Flight Engineers Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritskiy began their day training on the telerobotically operated rendezvous unit, or TORU, for Saturday's approach and rendezvous of the Progress 92.
Ryzhikov then set up hardware to capture hyperspectral imagery of landmarks in Mexico and South America. Zubritskiy photographed the Progress 90 as it departed the station.
Roscosmos Flight Engineer Kirill Peskov checked a laptop computer used for European robotic arm operations then completed a 24-hour session wearing sensors that measured his heart activity and blood pressure.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/07/01/brain-cancer-and-biotech-top-science-schedule-as-cargo-craft-departs/

#23261572 at 2025-07-01 15:56:26 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28357: For God and Country Ebake Edition

US photographer captures International Space Station against fiery Sun in 'once in a lifetime shot'
Jul 01, 2025 12:41 PM IST

The photographer shared stunning ISS transit photos and a quick video on Instagram, calling it a "once-in-a-lifetime shot" as the station zipped past the Sun.
A US photographer incredibly managed to capture the exact moment the International Space Station (ISS) passed in front of the Sun - right as a sunspot group flared up - creating a visually stunning and rare spectacle.
He shared the breathtaking images and a short video of the ISS transit on his Instagram, where the station appears to zoom past the Sun in a flash. No surprise he described it as a "once-in-a-lifetime shot."

Alongside the images, he wrote: "While waiting for the ISS to transit the sun, a sunspot group started flaring, leading to this once-in-a-lifetime shot.
The most detailed solar transit photo I've ever done, and one I'm thrilled to release as a limited edition print for a short time.
I'll have it available in two versions, one like this and another that is a wide panorama with the ISS against the full sun, showing just how small mankind's largest spacecraft is against the more distant sun.
I call the piece 'Kardashev Dreams', representing our first steps to being a much greater civilization."

He added that he carefully examines the fine details of each shot to ensure they're worthy of print - a process that takes time.
He described the image as one of his all-time favourites due to the rarity of capturing both a solar flare and an ISS transit in a single frame.
"See the still photos or get the print in one of two versions through the weekend only if I don't run through the limited editions," he added.

International Space Station
The International Space Station (ISS) is a collaborative global project that brings together international astronauts, various launch systems, training centers, mission control facilities, and a global network of researchers. It serves as a cutting-edge microgravity laboratory advancing science, education, and technology for the benefit of humanity. The programme received official approval from President Ronald Reagan in 1984, with funding from the US Congress.
Soon after, NASA Administrator James Beggs invited international partners to join. Canada, Japan, and several European Space Agency (ESA) nations came on board early, followed by Russia in 1993 during a major redesign phase.

Construction of the ISS components began in the late 1980s across the US, Canada, Japan, and Europe. Since its first crewed mission in 2000, the ISS has transformed from a basic outpost to a highly advanced research hub.
Now in its third decade of continuous human presence, the ISS plays a crucial role in hosting scientific experiments, technological demonstrations, and international collaboration.

Indian astronaut on ISS
Indian astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, serving as the Mission Pilot for Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), launched aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 3:21 am ET on June 25.
Shukla piloted the Dragon spacecraft, which successfully performed an automated docking with the International Space Station (ISS) at 4:05 pm IST on June 26-well ahead of schedule.
The spacecraft attached to the space-facing port of the ISS's Harmony module.

Upon arrival, the Ax-4 crew was greeted by the seven-member Expedition 73 team and participated in a safety orientation.
The Ax-4 mission crew includes NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, ISRO astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, and European Space Agency astronauts Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
They are expected to remain aboard the ISS for up to 14 days.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-photographer-captures-international-space-station-against-fiery-sun-in-once-in-a-lifetime-shot-101751350099968.html
https://www.instagram.com/p/DLF-Haqy57-/

#23261338 at 2025-07-01 14:32:47 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28357: For God and Country Ebake Edition

Crews Fill Day With Muscle, Heart, and Brain Research Before Cargo Mission Swap
June 30, 2025

The seven-member Expedition 73 crew wrapped up a weekend of housecleaning and relaxation then kicked off Monday with muscle and brain research aboard the International Space Station.
Their Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) counterparts worked throughout the weekend and began the week taking a closer look at muscle cells and exploring brain computer interfaces.
The public and private biology studies complement each other while the research data and hardware are supported by different organizations.

NASA Flight Engineers Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers joined each other in the Columbus laboratory module exploring electrical muscle stimulation as a supplement to space exercise.
McClain operated the biomedical gear from ESA (European Space Agency) that collected data from electrodes measuring the response of Ayer's leg muscles to electrical signals.
Results may help offset space-caused muscle atrophy in combination with shorter, more effective workouts in microgravity.

McClain earlier took a set of tests helping researchers understand how an astronaut's cognition, the ability to acquire and process knowledge, adapts to weightlessness.
Doctors hope to gain insights into potential adverse effects on a crew member's brain structure and function while living and working in space.

Ayers began her day with NASA Flight Engineer Jonny Kim taking turns processing blood samples for a variety of biology experiments.
Ayers performed a blood draw on herself at the beginning of her shift, spun the sample in a centrifuge, then stowed the specimen in a science freezer for later analysis.
Kim collected blood samples from Ax-4 private astronauts Peggy Whitson and S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski in Columbus for the Bone on ISS study, another ESA investigation, that is exploring space-induced bone loss.

Station Commander Takuya Onishi from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) worked throughout Monday processing his blood and urine samples for cold stowage and upcoming analysis to understand how his body is adapting to long term weightlessness.
Onishi then worked inside the Kibo laboratory module servicing hardware that monitors particulate matter in the station's atmosphere.

Flight Engineers Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritskiy, both Roscosmos cosmonauts, trained on a computer for the arrival and docking of the Progress 92 cargo craft to the Poisk module scheduled for July 5.
The duo also finished loading the Progress 90 cargo craft with trash and discarded gear and closed the spacecraft's hatch before its undocking from Poisk on Tuesday.
Fellow cosmonaut and Flight Engineer Kirill Peskov attached sensors to himself for a 24-hours session measuring his heart activity and blood pressure.
Peskov then set up the European robotic arm from inside the Nauka science module ahead of ground-controlled robotics tests.

The Ax-4 private astronauts had a science-packed Monday fulfilling research objectives for their home countries.
Whitson performed vein scans with the Ultrasound 2 device on Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu providing doctors from Budapest, his nation's capital, insights into how space affects blood pressure, balance, and vision.
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla filmed a video targeted to young Indian students discussing how the digestion system adapts to space.

Next, Shukla worked in Kibo's Life Science Glovebox checking muscle stem cell cultures to learn how to maintain muscle health in space.
Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski from Poland wore a specialized headset from ESA to test a brain-controlled computer interface. He then joined Whitson and Shukla filming crew activities for the Astronaut Mental Health study.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/30/crews-fill-day-with-muscle-heart-and-brain-research-before-cargo-mission-swap/

#23249030 at 2025-06-28 15:00:35 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28343: GM Scatterday News Dump Edition

'Shubh-aarambh' of new era: PM Modi interacts with Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla
Jun 28, 2025 07:36 PM IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is aboard the International Space Station, via video conferencing.
Shukla, along with three other astronauts, jetted off to the ISS on board SpaceX's Dragon capsule from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre, as part of the Axiom-4 mission, on June 25.
Shubhanshu Shukla also became the first Indian astronaut to head to space in over 40 years, marking a historic milestone for the nation.

The Prime Minister's Office posted on its official X handle, a picture of the duo's interaction, "PM @narendramodi interacted with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is aboard the International Space Station."
PM Modi also posted a video of his interaction with Shukla on X and wrote, "I had a wonderful conversation with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as he shared his experiences from the International Space Station."

PM Modi speaks to Shubhanshu Shukla
In his interaction with the Indian astronaut, PM Modi told Shukla, "You are farthest from India but closest to Indians' heart."
Citing that his name itself has "Shubh" (auspicious) in it, the Prime Minister said that the Group Captain's successful journey to space marks the "shubh-aarambh" (auspicious beginning) of a new era for the youth of the nation.
PM Modi conveyed his wishes, along with that of the 1.4 billion Indians, to Shukla.

The duo also shared a laughter over the 'gajar ka halwa' (carrot dessert) that Shukla has taken with him to the Space Station.
"Did you and the other astronauts eat gajar ka halwa there?" the PM asked, with Shukla responding that they ate the dessert, along with the other sweet dishes that he carried with himself.

Additionally, the Prime Minister asked Shukla about what India looks like from space, to which the Group Captain said, "India looks grand and bigger from space than it does on the map".
Shubhanshu Shukla also emphasized on the importance of mindfulness and said that it plays a crucial role. "We face many stressful situations, but mindfulness helps us to stay calm.
If you stay calm, then you can take good decisions," he added.

Finally, in his message to those listening, the Indian astronaut said, "If you try and build your future properly, then the nation's future will also be good. And keep this one thing in your heart: 'Sky is never the limit', neither for you, nor me, nor for India."
After Axiom-4's successful launch, PM Modi had congratulated and wished success to Shukla, the mission pilot, and other crew members: Mission commander Peggy Whitson, and mission specialists Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland, and Tibor Kapu from Hungary.
The Prime Minister had highlighted that Shukla, who was on his way to become the first Indian astronaut aboard the ISS, carried with him the "wishes, hopes and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians".

Axiom-4 mission
The Axiom-4 mission's Dragon spacecraft successfully completed docking on Thursday, marking the official beginning of its crew's two-week stay on the Space Station.
During their stay, the mission crew will carry out scientific experiments, technology demonstrations, and education outreach activities in a microgravity environment.

Shubhanshu Shukla will lead seven of the 60 experiments the mission crew will perform on board the ISS.
Axiom-4 mission marks the successful collaboration between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), fulfilling a commitment made by US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to send the first Indian astronaut to the Space Station.

Meanwhile, Shukla, in his first message from the ISS, expressed gratitude and said, "It is a privilege to be here". He added that the two weeks of stay at the station are going to be amazing.
"Whatever expectations I had of coming here were surpassed by the view, of course, that is a big part of it, but also by you guys," the Indian astronaut said.
"I think this is fantastic, this is wonderful and I am very confident that the next 14 days are going to be amazing, advancing science and research, and working together," he added.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-interacts-with-shubhanshu-shukla-iss-axiom-4-mission-group-captain-101751113295274.html
https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1938935165482606641
https://www.youtube.com/live/3wO8qQtq-d4?si=EAdtsvqZmwg9IciV

#23248973 at 2025-06-28 14:43:30 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28343: GM Scatterday News Dump Edition

https://nasawatch.com/ask-the-administrator/janet-petros-embrace-the-challenge-update-27-june-2025-voluntary-workforce-shaping/
https://executivegov.com/article/janet-petro-nasa-reorganization-top-level-structure-center-centric

Janet Petro's Embrace The Challenge Update 27 June 2025: "Voluntary Workforce Shaping"
June 27, 2025

Thank you to everyone who tuned in for this week's agency town hall. More than 32,000 of you watched through townhall.nasa.gov - and that doesn't include those who gathered in auditoriums and conference rooms to watch together.
A big thanks to our Office of the Chief Information Officer for putting key measures in place to ensure we stayed online and uninterrupted from start to finish.
Keith's note: here is the audio from the Town hall event - note that although the topic of RIF was frequently asked, Janet Petro makes zero mention of that word or statements that she and her staff made in this sanitized version of the event. Instead it is all about "voluntary workforce shaping".

We covered a lot of ground and tackled some tough topics. I want to reiterate a few key points here:

- Reorganizations are a process - and will take time. I expect to decide on the top-level structure and begin engaging our stakeholders in the coming weeks. That structure will only go down to the center level initially.
What happens below that will take shape over time, and I ask for your patience as this reshaping effort takes place - it will take time before we know how this impacts individuals.
We are reorganizing to become the most efficient and effective organization we can be - aligned to the mission we are charged with and the resources we expect to receive.

- We are offering a limited window of voluntary workforce shaping tools to avoid any involuntary separations.
For civil servants, the opt-in period for the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP), Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA), and Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment (VSIP) is open through July 25. We do not plan to offer these programs again.
With our budget trending downward and reorganization ahead, these voluntary options offer an off-ramp for those who want to take it.

- The President's FY 2026 Budget Request for NASA is NASA's budget request - and while it's still working through Congress, we have to begin preparing to align our workforce and resources now to meet the mission priorities it outlines.
I know many of you are facing deeply personal decisions in the weeks ahead - and I understand how heavy that can feel. Those feelings are valid. It's also understandable to want more clarity.
The information that's available now - whether it's the proposed budget or the resources through the Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer - is the information we have.
Sometimes, we're asked to make decisions without the full data set, and I encourage you to lean on your support system, talk things through, and make the best choice for you.

Even in the midst of this, we have a mission to carry out, and I continue to be impressed by what this team gets done. A few recent highlights:

- NASA and Roscosmos recently agreed to lower the pressure in the transfer tunnel of the International Space Station's Zvezda service module following repair work, enabling us to proceed with Axiom Mission 4.
The mission launched early Wednesday, carrying former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson alongside astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary.
This milestone reflects the strength of NASA's international partnerships and commercial capabilities, with U.S. industry helping expand opportunity and access to space on a global scale.

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#23248962 at 2025-06-28 14:37:10 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28343: GM Scatterday News Dump Edition

Ax-4 Meets Expedition 73 and Begins Space Research
June 27, 2025

Eleven residents are living and working aboard the International Space Station following the docking of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) at 6:31 a.m. EDT on Thursday.
The seven Expedition 73 crew members welcomed the four Ax-4 astronauts and are now helping them familiarize themselves with orbital lab systems and prepare for approximately two weeks of microgravity research.

Veteran astronaut and Ax-4 Commander Peggy Whitson was the first to enter the space station after the hatch opened at 8:14 a.m. on Thursday between the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and the Harmony module's space-facing port.
She was followed shortly afterward by Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla, and Mission Specialists S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski and Tibor Kapu.
After welcoming remarks, the Ax-4 crew was briefed on standard orbital safety procedures and the location of station emergency equipment.

On Friday, Ax-4 quickly got to work unloading sample-packed hardware and portable science freezers from inside Dragon for installation in station incubators and research refrigerators ahead of upcoming experiments.
Station safety hardware was also temporarily transferred inside Dragon as is customary for visiting spacecraft.
The private astronaut quartet later joined the Expedition 73 crew for more safety reviews to learn their roles and responsibilities and communication protocols with mission controllers in the unlikely event of an emergency on the orbital outpost.

Meanwhile, Expedition 73 kept up its daily research schedule with a space exercise study, eye exams, and lunar photography. Cargo transfers and life support maintenance rounded out crew's day.
NASA Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers set up the Destiny laboratory module's exercise cycle for NASA Flight Engineer Jonny Kim and the sensors he wore measuring his aerobic output as he pedaled during a workout session.
Researchers will use the data to help keep astronauts fit in space preparing them for strenuous activities such as spacewalks and the return to Earth's gravity environment.
Kim earlier pointed a camera toward the Moon and photographed the reflection of Earth's light shining on the lunar surface.

Ayers also joined Roscosmos Flight Engineer Sergey Ryzhikov and operated medical imaging gear while scanning the eyes of Kim and cosmonaut Kirill Peskov.
Doctors on the ground monitored in real time the examination for potential space-caused eye structure and vision issues.

Station Commander Takuya Onishi from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) set up a microscope in the Destiny lab then moved to the Kibo laboratory module and tested spacecraft communications hardware in coordination with mission controllers in Japan.
NASA Flight Engineer Anne McClain spent her day assisting the Ax-4 crewmates with their station familiarization duties and cargo transfers.
Peskov partnered with Roscosmos Flight Engineer Alexey Zubritskiy and packed trash and discarded gear inside the Progress 90 resupply ship before its departure on July 1.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/27/ax-4-meets-expedition-73-and-begins-space-research/

#23245336 at 2025-06-27 17:24:09 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28339: Crusade 2025 Edition

SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket creates nebula-like ring in night sky
June 27, 2025

During the early hours of June 25, 2025, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket blasted off into space, headed for the International Space Station.
The launch was part of the private Axiom-4 space mission carrying four astronauts on SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft.

What is it?
The Falcon 9 is a two-stage rocket that often carries cargo, Starlink satellites, or crew members in its corresponding Dragon spacecraft. Its reusable system aligns with SpaceX's mission to make spaceflight less costly, and thus more accessible.
When the rocket's first stage booster returns to Earth for launch site landings, the stage's boost back burn can sometimes create these plumes of exhaust high in the atmosphere.

Where is it?
The Falcon 9 rocket launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida and is currently headed for the International Space Station.

Why is it amazing?
The Ax-4 launch is a mission of "firsts," as it carried the first ever-people from India, Hungary and Poland into space, including pilot Shubhanshu Shukla and mission specialists S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski and Tibor Kapu.
Leading the team is former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, currently Axiom's director of human spaceflight.

Ax-4 was not easy to get off the ground, however. The mission faced two weeks of delays since its original launch date of June 11, 2025. These delays were caused by high winds as well as leaks on both the launch vehicle and the ISS.
But finally, on the morning of June 25, 2025, the Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched, ferrying the crew toward the ISS. Once there, the astronauts will spend two weeks in orbit and conduct over 60 experiments before returning back to Earth.

https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-falcon-9-rocket-creates-nebula-like-ring-in-night-sky-space-photo-of-the-day-for-june-27-2025

#23240939 at 2025-06-26 16:52:01 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28334: Secretary Hegseth and General Caine Hold A Press Conference Edition

? Ax-4 Travels Below the ISS | 7 Minutes of 4K Footage from Sen
26 June 2025

Watch 4K footage as SpaceX's Ax-4 Dragon spacecraft travels below the International Space Station before docking, captured by Sen's ultra-high-definition cameras onboard the ISS on 26 June 2025.

This historic moment marks the debut flight of Axiom Space's newest Dragon capsule, carrying a pioneering international crew:
?? Shubhanshu Shukla - Test pilot, India
?? S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski - Mission Specialist, Poland
?? Tibor Kapu - Mission Specialist, Hungary
?? Peggy Whitson - Commander, USA

Ax-4 is Axiom Space's fourth private mission to the ISS, launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 in partnership with NASA and SpaceX.
? Footage captured by Sen - streaming Earth and space in continuous 4K from the ISS. Watch on our channel now.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6qgYaonQeA

#23240382 at 2025-06-26 14:22:04 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28334: Secretary Hegseth and General Caine Hold A Press Conference Edition

Axiom Mission 4 Astronauts Enter Station, Begin Research Mission
June 26, 2025

At 8:14 a.m. EDT on Thursday, the hatch opened between the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and the International Space Station following the arrival of Axiom Mission 4.
NASA's live coverage will continue through welcome remarks from the crew.

The spacecraft docked at 6:31 a.m. to the space-facing port of the space station's Harmony module.

Former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland, and Tibor Kapu of Hungary now are aboard the space station after launching at 2:31 a.m. on June 25, on the company's Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for the fourth private astronaut mission to the orbiting laboratory, Axiom Mission 4.

The private astronauts plan to spend about two weeks aboard the orbiting laboratory, conducting a mission of science, outreach, and commercial activities.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/26/axiom-mission-4-astronauts-enter-station-begin-research-mission/
https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/26/axiom-mission-4-astronauts-dock-to-station-inside-dragon/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvOKNBvXhz4 (Ax-4 Mission | Approach & Docking)

#23236125 at 2025-06-25 15:42:17 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28329: Ante Up Edition

http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-062525a-axiom-mission-4-ax4-grace-dragon-capsule-name.html

With 'Grace': Astronauts name SpaceX's final Dragon crew capsule
June 25, 2025

The last Dragon spacecraft that SpaceX plans to build entered orbit for the first time with "grace."
Taking flight on Wednesday (June 25) from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the capsule lifted off with Axiom Space's fourth crew to visit the International Space Station.

Ax-4 commander Peggy Whitson revealed the spacecraft's name just as it separated from its rocket's upper stage to begin its maiden mission.
"We had an incredible ride uphill and now we'd like to set our course for the International Space Station aboard the newest member of the Dragon fleet, our spacecraft named 'Grace,'" said Whitson, who in addition to leading Ax-4 is the director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space and a former NASA astronaut who holds the record for the most time in space by an American and by a woman.

"'Grace' is more than a name," Whitson said. "It reflects the elegance with which we move through space against the backdrop of Earth.
It speaks to the refinement of our mission, the harmony of science and spirit and the unmerited favor we carry with humility."
"Grace reminds us that spaceflight is not just a seed of engineering, but an act of good work for the benefit of every human everywhere," she said.

Whitson's comments were followed by remarks by her crewmates, delivered in their native language.
Ax-4 pilot Shubhanshu "Shuks" Shukla with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and mission specialists S?awosz "Suave" Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and the European Space Agency (ESA) and Tibor Kapu of the Hungarian to Orbit (HUNOR) astronaut program are each their country's second citizen to fly into space after a hiatus of more than 40 years.

It has become tradition for the first astronauts to fly on a U.S. commercial crew vehicle to have the honor of naming it.
In this case, SpaceX's Crew-10 had originally been assigned to launch aboard the new capsule (referred to previously by its SpaceX serial number, 213).
A decision by NASA to advance their launch date, though, resulted in their trading spacecraft with Ax-4.

"Yes, we had thought about it, but maybe even more significantly, we had been lobbied by many different people who had ideas for us," said Crew-10 commander Anne McClain with NASA, replying to a question from collectSPACE about her crew's chosen name as part of a pre-launch briefing in March.
"So I would like to recognize our excellent flight director, Allison [Bolinger], and her "Athena" flight control team, as she was really lobbying for a name."
"We're not going to share what we would have named the capsule, but we have told the next crew that may potentially fly it that we are now the lobbyists, lobbying them to give it our name," McClain said.

1/2

#23235993 at 2025-06-25 15:12:35 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28329: Ante Up Edition

Axiom's Fourth Private Mission Launches to Station Aboard Dragon
June 25, 2025

At 2:31 a.m. EDT, the crew members of Axiom Mission 4 lifted off on the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to the International Space Station.
Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, is commanding the commercial mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is serving as pilot.
The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

NASA will end coverage approximately 15 minutes after launch, following Dragon orbital insertion.
The spacecraft will dock autonomously to the space-facing port of the station's Harmony module at approximately 7 a.m. on Thursday, June 26. NASA's live rendezvous and docking coverage will begin at 5 a.m. on NASA+.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/25/axioms-fourth-private-mission-launches-to-station-aboard-dragon/
https://www.axiomspace.com/missions/ax4
https://www.spacex.com/launches/mission/?missionId=ax-4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4TT_1e6rkM (Full Launch)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eCWkePf9sk (Axiom Mission 4 Arrival and Welcome Remarks Jun 26, 2025 7 a.m. EDT (1100 UTC))

#23208989 at 2025-06-20 14:23:29 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28299: GM TGIF Movie Madness Edition

NASA Provides Latest Axiom Mission 4 Launch, Station Operations Update
June 19, 2025

NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX continue reviewing launch opportunities for Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station.
NASA has made the decision to stand down from a launch on Sunday, June 22, and will target a new launch date in the coming days.

The space agency needs additional time to continue evaluating International Space Station operations after recent repair work in the aft (back) most segment of the orbital laboratory's Zvezda service module.
Because of the space station's interconnected and interdependent systems, NASA wants to ensure the station is ready for additional crew members, and the agency is taking the time necessary to review data.

NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX appreciate the historic nature of this mission for the nations of India, Poland, and Hungary, as well as the world.
The crew remains in quarantine in Florida, and the astronauts stand ready to launch when the station is ready to receive them.

Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot.
The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft remain healthy on the launch pad at Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/19/nasa-provides-latest-axiom-mission-4-launch-station-operations-update/
https://www.spacex.com/vehicles/starship/

#23204105 at 2025-06-19 15:11:51 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28293: GM Thorsday 8 Balls Edition

NASA Shares New Space Station Ops, Axiom Mission 4 Launch Update
June 18, 2025

NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX now are targeting no earlier than Sunday, June 22, for launch of the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, Axiom Mission 4.
The change in a targeted launch date provides NASA time to continue evaluating space station operations after recent repair work in the aft (back) most segment of the International Space Station's Zvezda service module.

Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot.
The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
The crew will lift off aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on Falcon 9 from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/18/nasa-shares-new-space-station-ops-axiom-mission-4-launch-update/
https://www.axiomspace.com/missions/ax4

#23182942 at 2025-06-15 14:05:38 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28270: GM Sonday Dindu Nuttin Habby Father's Day All Edition

NASA, Partners Review Axiom Mission 4 Launch Opportunities
June 14, 2025

NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX are reviewing launch opportunities no earlier than Thursday, June 19, for the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, Axiom Mission 4.
On June 12, NASA and Axiom Space delayed the mission as the agency continued to work with Roscosmos to understand the most recent repair efforts to seal small leaks.
The leaks, located in the aft (back) most segment of the International Space Station's Zvezda service module, have been monitored by flight controllers for the past few years.

Following the most-recent repair, pressure in the transfer tunnel has been stable. Previously, pressure in this area would have dropped. This could indicate the small leaks have been sealed.
Teams are also considering the stable pressure could be the result of a small amount of air flowing into the transfer tunnel across the hatch seal from the main part of space station.
By changing pressure in the transfer tunnel and monitoring over time, teams are evaluating the condition of the transfer tunnel and the hatch seal between the space station and the back of Zvezda.

It is not uncommon for the agency and its international partners to adjust launches around changes in operations aboard the space station.
Teams are making progress evaluating the transfer tunnel configuration, resulting in an updated launch opportunity for the private astronaut mission.

In addition, SpaceX teams have repaired a liquid oxygen leak identified during post-static fire Falcon 9 rocket inspections. Following the repairs, the company completed a wet dress rehearsal of the Falcon 9.
Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot.
The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

The crew will lift off aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on Falcon 9 from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/14/nasa-partners-review-axiom-mission-4-launch-opportunities/
https://www.axiomspace.com/missions/ax4
https://www.spacex.com/launches/mission/?missionId=ax-4

#23177110 at 2025-06-14 15:29:00 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28262: Patriots Rise Up, Show Out Today Edition

>>23177102
A highly qualified 13-member ISRO team, stationed at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, was not convinced by the "band-aid-like" solution of a 'purge' offered by SpaceX on the oxidiser line leak.
In a statement, ISRO Chairman, Dr V Narayanan, stated, "As part of launch vehicle preparation to validate the performance of the booster stage of the Falcon-9 launch vehicle, a seven-second hot test was carried out on the launch pad.
It is understood that LOX leakage was detected in the propulsion bay during the test. Based on the discussion on this topic by the ISRO team with the experts of Axiom and SpaceX, it has been decided to correct the leak and carry out necessary validation tests before clearing for the launch."

The ISRO chief is a top expert on liquid engines and was part of the team that helped India build a cryogenic engine. He is aware of the risks of a liquid oxygen leak.
Sources told NDTV that the Hungarian and Polish teams supported the stand taken by the Indian delegation. The leadership of Axiom Space is also relieved by the 'Safety-first, Launch-later' stand taken by ISRO.
The Indian space organisation's handling of the situation is appreciated by many at Cape Canaveral.

The cracked line has since been replaced, but Dr Narayanan asserts that "safety and mission integrity remain our top priorities". Experts say the crack could have fractured the fuel line since massive vibrations take place at liftoff.
Observers, not party to the Axiom-4 mission, told NDTV, it is probably the first time someone has taken on the formidable SpaceX.
The American aerospace expert suggested that SpaceX did not realise that India's space agency was headed by a technical expert and not a politician.

Axiom-4 Mission And India's Stake
India is a stakeholder in the mission after it purchased a seat on the Axiom-4 mission for Rs 550 crores.
It seeks to mitigate all risks for the crew of Commander Peggy Whitson from the US, pilot Shubhanshu Shukla from India, and mission specialists, Slawosz Uzananski-Wisniewski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary.
An expert from Florida said, "All four lives are equally important; a human-rated rocket has to be handled differently and not with quick fixes that are not fully validated, as was being provided by SpaceX."

At one stage, the Indian delegation was ready to pull out Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from the mission if SpaceX had not carried out the corrections.
India's Science Minister, Dr Jitendra Singh, supported ISRO's decision and said, "Safety, precision, commitment to excellence were paramount since a liquid oxygen (LOX) leak was detected during a seven-second hot test of Falcon 9's booster. After a joint review by ISRO, Axiom & SpaceX teams, it was decided to rectify the issue & revalidate before lift-off."

Yesterday, SpaceX said, "Falcon 9 wet dress rehearsal is complete. We'll continue to work closely with NASA and Axiom Space to determine the best launch opportunity for Dragon and the Ax-4 crew to the Space Station."
A source in Axiom Space said, "A wet dress rehearsal is a pre-launch test where the Falcon-9 is fully fuelled with liquid propellants, simulating a launch countdown, but without actual engine ignition. We are still standing by for a launch date. This is just ensuring readiness for the vehicle."
SpaceX said that it has completed 500 launches of the Falcon-9 rocket, which has a 99.6% success record, but others point out that the Falcon rocket has had just 10 human space flights, all successful, but still a tiny legacy compared to the Russian Soyuz rockets and the Space Shuttle.

The Falcon-9 rocket stands tall on Pad 39-A, the same pad used by Astronaut Neil Armstrong for his moon landing. India's Astronaut Group Captain Shukla and three other crew members are still in quarantine awaiting the launch date.
Meanwhile, in a separate headache of a 'pressure issue' on the International Space Station, ISRO said, "Axiom Space informed that they are working closely with NASA to assess the pressure anomaly in the Zvezda Service Module on board the International Space Station."
If the launch does not happen on June 19, then the window is still open till June 30.

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#23171368 at 2025-06-13 15:11:46 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28256: We're Not Going To Play Edition

SpaceX launch of private Ax-4 astronauts postponed indefinitely due to leaky ISS module
June 12, 2025

The SpaceX launch of four private astronauts has been delayed again.
The Ax-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) had been scheduled to launch atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Florida's Space Coast on Wednesday morning (June 11), but a propellant leak in the booster nixed that plan.
And now, another leak - this one in Ax-4's destination - has further postponed the liftoff.

Cosmonauts recently detected a "new pressure signature" in the Zvezda service module, part of the Russian segment of the ISS, NASA officials announced in an update today (June 12).
This development isn't exactly a shock; this area first sprang a leak back in 2019, and cosmonauts have been dealing with it ever since, as the recent spot check shows.
The cosmonauts "sealed some additional areas of interest and measured the current leak rate," NASA officials wrote in the update. "Following this effort, the segment now is holding pressure."
"The crew aboard the International Space Station is safely conducting normal operations," NASA spokesperson Cheryl Warner said in an emailed statement. "We're assessing this latest update and will provide additional information as available."

Still, the agency and Axiom Space, the Houston company that organized Ax-4, decided that grounding the mission for now is the prudent course of action.
Doing so "provides additional time for NASA and Roscosmos to evaluate the situation and determine whether any additional troubleshooting is necessary," NASA wrote in today's update, referring to Russia's space agency.
No new target launch date has been announced.

As its name suggests, Ax-4 will be Axiom's fourth crewed mission to (and from) the ISS. The roughly two-week-long flight will be commanded by record-breaking former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, who is now Axiom's director of human spaceflight.
The three other crew members are pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India, Polish mission specialist S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski and Hungarian mission specialist Tibor Kapu.
Nobody from India, Poland or Hungary has ever visited the ISS, so this trio will make history when Ax-4 is finally able to get off the pad.

https://www.space.com/space-exploration/private-spaceflight/spacex-launch-of-private-ax-4-astronauts-postponed-indefinitely-due-to-leaky-iss-module
https://www.spacex.com/launches/mission/?missionId=ax-4

#23165159 at 2025-06-12 15:32:30 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28249: Make America Safe Again - Deport Newsom Edition

NASA, Axiom Space Delay Axiom Mission 4 Launch to Space Station
June 12, 2025

NASA and Axiom Space are postponing the launch of Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station.
As part of an ongoing investigation, NASA is working with Roscosmos to understand a new pressure signature, after the recent post-repair effort in the aft most segment of the International Space Station's Zvezda service module.

Cosmonauts aboard the space station recently performed inspections of the pressurized module's interior surfaces, sealed some additional areas of interest, and measured the current leak rate. Following this effort, the segment now is holding pressure.
The postponement of Axiom Mission 4 provides additional time for NASA and Roscosmos to evaluate the situation and determine whether any additional troubleshooting is necessary.
NASA defers to Roscosmos to answer specific questions about the Zvezda module.

A new launch date for the fourth private astronaut mission will be provided once available.

Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot.
The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
The crew will lift off aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on Falcon 9 from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/12/nasa-axiom-space-delay-axiom-mission-4-launch-to-space-station/

#23158803 at 2025-06-11 14:08:28 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28242: Who Plays It Better? NCSWIC Edition

NASA, Partners Delay Axiom Mission 4, Reviewing Launch Date
June 10, 2025

NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX are standing down from the launch opportunity on Wednesday, June 11, of Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair a liquid oxygen leak identified during post-static fire Falcon 9 rocket inspections.
A new launch date for the fourth private astronaut mission will be provided once repair work is complete, pending range availability.

Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot.
The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

The crew will lift off aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on Falcon 9 from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/10/nasa-partners-delay-axiom-mission-4-reviewing-launch-date/
https://www.spacex.com/launches/mission/?missionId=ax-4

#23153396 at 2025-06-10 14:12:58 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28235: GM Tuesday Truths Unfolding, Fuck Illegals Edition

Close watch on weather at NASA's Florida spaceport ahead of Axiom-4 launch
Tuesday, 10 June 2025

SpaceX, NASA and Axiom Space are closely watching weather patterns at the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida where Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and three others look forward to their travel to the International Space Station (ISS), now scheduled for Wednesday.
Addressing a pre-launch press conference, SpaceX Vice President William Gerstenmaier said engineers had fixed some snags in the Falcon-9 rocket that were discovered during the static fire test and had gone unnoticed during the post-flight refurbishment of boosters.

The Axiom-4 commercial mission to the ISS had to be put off by a day to Wednesday evening due to inclement weather conditions in the flight path of the SpaceX rocket that would lift off from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre in Florida.
Gerstenmaier said engineers had discovered a locks leak that was previously seen on the booster during its entry on the last mission and was not fully repaired during the refurbishment.
"We are continuing to troubleshoot that. We should get that completed today and we will have that back in configuration. We are installing a purge that will essentially mitigate the leak if it still continues… On the launch day," he said.

Gerstenmaier said engineers also discovered an engine 5 thrust vector control problem and the components associated with that have already been changed.
"We will be complete with all our work this (Tuesday) evening and we will be ready to support launch as early as Wednesday," he said.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman V Narayanan said on Monday that due to weather conditions, the launch of the Axiom-4 mission for sending Indian Gaganyatri to the ISS was postponed from June 10 to June 11.
"The targeted time of launch is 5:30 PM IST on 11th June 2025," Narayanan said in a post on X on Monday.

Jimmy Tager, the Launch Weather Officer, 45th Weather Squadron of the US Space Force, said there was surface high pressure to the south east of central Florida, which typically produces south west flow across the area.
"Now over the next couple of days, the surface high pressure is going to move further towards the north and that is going to switch our primary flow towards the south east.
South east flow does tend to create some more isolated scattered showers to thundershowers in the morning time," he said.

He added that even though the Probability of Violation (POV) was lower for the initial attempt (June 10), for the next attempt on Wednesday, the POV does increase to 20 per cent.
"And as we get to Thursday (June 12), the backup opportunity POV increases a little bit more to about 25 per cent. So though it is on the lower end, it does look like there could be a possibility of isolated scattered thunderstorms near the area at the launch time," Tager said.
"But for the ascent corridor, even though the winds are pretty strong right now, it does look like winds are going to be improving over the next couple of days. As we get to Wednesday, winds will be even better, and Thursday, even better than Wednesday," he added.

Dana Weigel, Manager, International Space Station Programme, NASA, said that there are launch opportunities till June 30. She was responding to questions on the launch window for the Axiom-4 mission due to unfavourable weather conditions.
"I think we will have the vehicle ready, the crews trained and the cargo loaded. I think we're ready from a hardware standpoint.
It is just kind of waiting for the weather to get there. In terms of launch opportunities, we have launch opportunities all the way through June 30," Weigel said.

She said the Russian cargo vehicle 'Progress' will undock from the ISS later and a new one will dock for which there would be a brief cut-off for other launches.
"Then, we have a brief cut-off for high Solar Beta. Then we pick up again like in the middle of July. So, plenty of opportunities to fly the vehicle," Weigel said.

The Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission comprises Commander Peggy Whitson, pilot Shukla and specialists Tigor Kapu of Hungary and Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland.
The 14-day mission will "realise the return" to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary.

https://www.dailypioneer.com/2025/trending-news/close-watch-on-weather-at-nasa-s-florida-spaceport-ahead-of-axiom-4-launch.html

#23146926 at 2025-06-09 15:11:39 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28228: GM Moab Monday: PAID INSURRECTION! IT'S A TARP Edition

>>23146842
>>23146844

Watch live: Ignis launches into space
09/06/2025

In brief
Tune in on Tuesday 10 June from 10:15 GMT (12:15 CEST) to watch the launch of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), as ESA project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski embarks on his first journey to the International Space Station.
Watch the action live on?ESA Web TV 2?and?ESA YouTube.

In-depth
The mission will launch from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, USA. The crew will travel to the Space Station aboard a Dragon spacecraft, launched on a Falcon 9 rocket.
During the journey to the International Space Station, S?awosz will serve as a mission specialist. He will be joined by commander Peggy Whitson (USA), pilot Shubhanshu Shukla (India) and fellow mission specialist Tibor Kapu (Hungary).

Ax-4 marks the second commercial human spaceflight mission for an ESA project astronaut. Sponsored by the Polish government and supported by ESA, the Polish Ministry of Economic Development and Technology (MRiT) and the Polish Space Agency (POLSA), the mission features an ambitious programme of technological and scientific research.

During the Ignis mission, S?awosz will conduct 13 experiments proposed by Polish companies and institutions and developed in collaboration with ESA, along with three additional ESA-led experiments.
These cover a broad range of areas including human research, materials science, biology, biotechnology and technology demonstration.

S?awosz and his crewmates are expected to reach the International Space Station approximately 36 hours after launch. The capsule is scheduled to dock on Wednesday, 11 June at 16:30 GMT (18:30 CEST).
Live coverage will begin two hours before docking. You can also watch the crew entering the station and the welcome ceremony live on ESA Web TV and on ESA's YouTube channel.
The?Ignis mission?will officially begin as soon as S?awosz goes through the hatch.?

https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Human_and_Robotic_Exploration/ignis/Watch_live_Ignis_launches_into_space
https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Human_and_Robotic_Exploration/ignis
https://www.youtube.com/live/J1xfppWABZo

#23146844 at 2025-06-09 14:59:54 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28228: GM Moab Monday: PAID INSURRECTION! IT'S A TARP Edition

>>23146842
According to Axiom Space, the Ax-4 mission will "realise the return" to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation's first government-sponsored flight in more than 40 years.
While this is the second human spaceflight mission in history for these countries, it will be the first time all three will execute a mission aboard the International Space Station.
This historic mission highlights how Axiom Space is redefining access to low-Earth orbit and elevating national space programs globally.

The Ax-4 crew includes members from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation's first mission to the space station in history and the second government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in over 40 years, according to Axiom Space.Shubhanshu Shukla will be India's second national astronaut to go to space since 1984.

Slawosz Uznanski, European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut, will be the second Polish astronaut since 1978. Tibor Kapu will be the second national Hungarian astronaut since 1980.
Peggy Whitson will command her second commercial human spaceflight mission, adding to her standing record for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut.
His group member, Tibor Kapu said, "Shuk's wisdom, the knowledge that he possesses, he could be 130 years old.
Peggy Whitson said, "For me, having him as my pilot in the Dragon capsule is great. He already has that operational savvy. He's just wicked smart when it comes to spacecraft technologies."

Slawosz Uznanski, European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut said about Group Captain Shukla, "He is very focused and he will basically go one, two, three, four in a record time. I don't even know how he gets there so fast".
Describing the team with whom he is going on the mission, Group Captain Shukla said, "The team that I'm flying with on this mission, it is fantastic. I do feel that I have exceptional crewmates.
I will have these crew members for this one flight. But post this mission, these are going to be my friends for life. It has been an amazing journey.

These are moments that really tell you that you are getting to be a part of something that is much larger than yourself. I can only say how extremely fortunate I am to be a part of this.
It is my sincere endeavor through my mission to inspire an entire generation back home in the country. I want to use this opportunity to ignite curiosity among kids.
Even if this story, my story, is able to change one life, it would be a huge success for me. I'm Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla. and I am the mission pilot for Axiom 4 mission."

On June 8, the Ax-4 crew and SpaceX teams successfully completed a full rehearsal of launch day activities ahead of their scheduled liftoff on Tuesday, June 10, SpaceX said in a post on their official handle.

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#23140387 at 2025-06-08 15:37:19 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28221: Temple of Doom eBake Edition

>>23140385
What's your favourite space movie?
2001: A Space Odyssey. I just find it fascinating and intriguing and a beautiful Stanley Kubrick adaptation of Arthur C Clarke's vision of things. It's very thought-provoking even almost 60 years later.
I think The Martian is a very good movie and the Andy Weir book [it's based on] - I love that. I think Ron Howard did a beautiful job with Apollo 13 - it's almost a documentary. He worked so hard, he spent time with the astronauts, he filmed in a zero G aeroplane.

Tell us your favourite fact.
The most experienced astronaut in all of American history is a woman named Peggy Whitson. She's flown in space multiple times [and] been longer in space than any other American.
She's commanded the space station twice. She's done 10 spacewalks and she's been the chief astronaut for Nasa. She's a tour de force. She's a good friend. She's a great person.

Do you have a party trick?
I'm a musician, I play guitar and sing - and I have the type of head that remembers lyrics. So my party trick is that I have probably 500 songs that I can play at any moment and know every single word and every single chord all the way from the start to the finish.
It's just the way my brain works. It's kind of silly but it's really fun to be a human jukebox and have people say, "Hey, can you play that song?" When I'm on stage in Australia, I'll have a guitar and I'll play a few songs.

What's the worst space chore?
Fixing the toilet. They break all the time. Being elbows deep in a toilet anywhere is no fun - it's even worse when it's weightless.
And the trouble with our toilets is they have really nasty, poisonous chemicals and filters in them to try and process what's going through so that we can turn our urine and sweat back into drinking water, because we recycle about 93-94% of the water on board.

What's the best lesson you learned from someone you've worked with?
We were in the space shuttle simulator [with commander Kent Vernon "Rommel" Rominger] and one of the crew members, Scott, had this cool and exciting idea.
He came ripping up to the cockpit and plunked his laptop down to show him the solution to the problem and he knocked over Rommel's can of Coke - it flipped upside down and started emptying itself into all of his checklists.
Rommel turned the can right side up and didn't say a thing. What this guy had come up with would be hugely important in the success of our mission. A little Coke spilled is unimportant - you can get more checklists.
The natural reaction would have been, "What the heck are you doing? Don't be so clumsy and look at the mess you made." Instead, Rommel was like, "Who cares?
What I don't want Scott to think about next time he's got a great idea is, 'Oh, I gotta be careful I don't spill the commander's Coke.'" He should be excited about new ideas. And so, for me, it was a really great study of leadership.

What song do you want played at your funeral?
Danny Boy. It's a lovely reversal of how people normally look at death and who's grieving and why, and how you anticipate the grieving of death. It is an exquisitely and hauntingly beautiful song, and it's worth knowing the lyrics.

2/2

#23140268 at 2025-06-08 15:14:24 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28221: Temple of Doom eBake Edition

>>23140267
Ryzhikov also cleaned out a heater fan and filled an oxygen generator tank in the Progress MS-29 (90P) cargo spacecraft as well as assisted Zubritskiy in the work to service a neutron radiation detector in the Russian segment of the space station.
In addition to the work detailed above, McClain worked on SoFIE-MIST.

"SoFIE-MIST stands for Solid Fuel Ignition and Extinction-Material Ignition and Suppression Test," she wrote in a June 6 X post. "MIST consists of a small-scale combustion wind tunnel, cylindrical fuel sample, an igniter, radiant heaters, and instrumentation.
By varying parameters like air flow speed, oxygen concentration, pressure, and level of external radiation, then viewing the resultant flame produced on the sample, we can better characterize early behavior of fire.
This helps us choose better materials for use in space, and it helps determine the best methods of extinguishing fires in space." "This week, I changed out the fuel samples and igniter for the next science run."

The Expedition 73 crew's activities this week also included preparing for the arrival of short-term visitors:
Axiom Space's fourth commercial mission to the International Space Station is scheduled to arrive aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on Wednesday (June 11), assuming an on-time launch the day prior.
Former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson will lead the Ax-4 crew, which includes pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India and mission specialists S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland (and ESA) and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

The station crew reviewed the Ax-4 plan with mission managers on the ground while McClain and Ayers, who are assigned to oversee the Dragon's approach from inside the station, went over the docking procedures.
The two used a computer to review the situations they could encounter when the Dragon nears the orbiting complex.
Onishi readied the tablet computers that will be used by Whitson, Shukla, Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski and Kapu during their two-week science research mission

As of Friday (June 6), there are 7 people aboard the International Space Station: commander Takuya Onishi of JAXA, Anne McClain, Nichole Ayers and Jonny Kim of NASA and Kirill Peskov, Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky of Roscosmos, all flight engineers.
There are two docked crew spacecraft: SpaceX's Dragon "Endurance" attached to the forward port of the Harmony module, and Roscosmos' Soyuz MS-27 attached to the Earth-facing port of the Prichal node.
There are also two docked cargo spacecraft: Rosocmos' Progess MS-29 (90P) attached to the space-facing port of the Poisk module and Progress MS-30 (91P) attached to the aft port of the Zvezda service module.
As of Friday, the space station has been continuously crewed for 24 years, 7 months and 5 days.

2/2

#23135718 at 2025-06-07 15:02:17 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28216: GM SRV Scaturday News Direct Hits Edition

Space Physics, Biology Studies Wrap Week Aboard Space Station
June 6, 2025

Space physics topped the International Space Station research schedule on Friday followed by ongoing biology studies.
Earth observation duties and a variety of lab maintenance were also on the schedule for the Expedition 73 crew at the end of the week.
Observing how microgravity affects physics aboard the orbital outpost gives engineers an opportunity to design innovative products and solutions benefitting industries on Earth and in space.
The insights unobtainable in Earth's gravity have helped improved the quality of medicine, food, household products, and a wide array of other products and services.

Station Commander Takuya Onishi from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) wrapped up operations of the Colloidal Solids experiment studying the behavior of tiny particles (colloids) and proteins in water.
He stowed the research hardware and returned the Microgravity Science Glovebox to its standard configuration in the Destiny laboratory module.
The results from the physics investigation may inform the space-based production of pharmaceuticals and protein crystallization to improve human health.

NASA Flight Engineer Anne McClain also worked in Destiny swapping sample cartridges inside the lab module's Materials Science Laboratory (MSL).
The MSL supports researching new applications for existing materials such as metals, alloys, polymers, and more, and developing new or improved materials.
McClain later replaced a carbon dioxide controller inside the Space Automated Bioproduct Laboratory, a research incubator supporting the study of biological systems and processes in microgravity.

NASA Flight Engineer Nichole Ayers continued testing the performance of a 3D microscope, called the Extant Life Volumetric Imaging System, or ELVIS, inside the Kibo laboratory module.
She processed samples of deep-sea bacteria for viewing inside ELVIS to demonstrate its ability to monitor water quality, detect infectious organisms on spacecraft, and research colloids, or suspensions of particles in a liquid.

NASA Flight Engineer Jonny Kim focused on orbital maintenance keeping up life support systems and stowing cargo throughout the day.
He first inspected fan filters on an EXPRESS rack, a multipurpose research rack, in the Columbus laboratory module searching for potential debris not accessible during normal cleaning duties.
Following that work he moved to the Pressurized Mating Adapter 1 that connects the Unity module to the Zarya module and stowed a variety of hardware.

Veteran Roscosmos cosmonaut Sergey Ryzhikov wore virtual reality glasses for an investigation exploring how a crew member's sense of balance and visual tracking adjust to microgravity.
Flight Engineer Kirill Peskov continued his Earth observation duties pointing a camera outside a space station window and photographing islands and volcanos around the globe.
Flight Engineer Alexey Zubritskiy kicked off his shift filling the Elektron oxygen generator tank then transferred water stowed aboard the Progress 90 cargo craft to station tanks.

Axiom Mission 4 continues its countdown to launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Center at 8:22 a.m. EDT on June 10 aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.
Veteran astronaut Peggy Whitson will command Ax-4 and lead Indian Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla and Mission Specialists S?awosz Uzana?ski-Wi?niewksi from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary to the orbital outpost.
The Ax-4 astronauts will ride inside Dragon for an autonomous docking to the station's space-facing port on the Harmony module at 12:30 p.m. on June 11. Watch the launch and docking coverage on NASA+.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/06/space-physics-biology-studies-wrap-week-aboard-space-station/

#23126215 at 2025-06-05 16:26:46 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28204: Fake News Gets Faker Every Day ~ WE ARE THE NEWS NOW Edition

'Joy,' a plush baby swan, will launch with Axiom Mission-4 crew as zero-g indicator
June 4, 2025

When an international astronaut crew lifts off on a commercial space mission this month, they will be joined by a ?????, a ?ab?d? or a hatty?. Or, in English, a swan.
The Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) astronauts, including American commander Peggy Whitson, Indian pilot Shubhanshu Shukla and mission specialists S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary, chose a small plush swan named "Joy" as their zero-gravity indicator.
The doll, attached to a tether, will be released to float aboard the SpaceX Dragon capsule, signaling that the Ax-4 crew safely made it into low Earth orbit.

"Joy, the baby swan, embodies the shared pursuit of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Hungarian to Orbit program (HUNOR) to soar high above our home planet," reads Axiom Space's description of the zero-g indicator.
"In this way, Joy represents cultural unity as three nations realize the return to human spaceflight, together as one crew."
The Ax-4 crew chose a swan because it symbolizes similar characteristics across their different countries.

"'Joy' represents the shared aspirations of three nations united in their return to human spaceflight," said Whitson as she revealed the zero-g indicator during the crew's pre-launch press briefing on Tuesday (June 3).
"This one is rich in cultural symbolism. It stands for wisdom in India, resilience in Poland and grace in Hungary. Through 'Joy,' we'll celebrate our diversity and our unity in the shared journey of space exploration."

"In Indian culture, the swan is the vehicle of Goddess Saraswati, symbolizing wisdom, learning and purity," said Shukla.
"It is said to have the rare ability to separate milk from water, a symbolism that is a powerful reminder of discernment in an age of distraction.
To carry the symbol is to carry the essence of our mission: pursuit of knowledge, clarity of purpose and grace under pressure."

"The biggest journey is about to start in just couple of days. I still do not realize how big this moment will be," said Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski.
"This will be such a joy, just as the name of our extra passenger in our Dragon and on the ISS."

The Ax-4 crew arrived at a baby swan after deciding they wanted it to be an animal, as inspired by the interests of one of their children.
"We wanted to go with with a dinosaur or a lion, but we just couldn't find the right one," said Kapu. "We were extremely happy when we found 'Joy.'"

"Joy," as named by Kapu, is otherwise known as "Alina Swan," a part of Aurora's "Adorable Palm Pals" line of pocket-size play dolls.
Measuring all of 5 inches tall (12.7 centimeters), Joy/Alina is fluffy to the touch and is filled with bean pellets, such that (in a gravity environment) it sits in your hand or wherever you chose.

Flying zero-g indicators is a tradition that can be traced back to the first human spaceflight in 1961.
Soviet-era cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin brought a small doll with him on his Vostok mission to see it float. Since then, the Russian crews that followed Gagarin into Earth orbit flew small dolls, often chosen by their children.

The custom reached the United States with the introduction of crewed capsules after the end of the space shuttle program.
Now, commercial spaceflights operated by SpaceX and Boeing, as well as NASA Artemis flights, include zero-g indicators.

Once at the International Space Station, Joy will join the Expedition 53 dolls, including "Droog," a crocheted origami crane, flown by SpaceX's Crew-10 and an angel blowing a horn selected by Russia's Soyuz MS-27 crew.
"A team that has joy is a team that is healthy," said Kapu. "That has become my personal motto, because it captures the essence of this crew.

We are focused, we are committed, but above all, we are joyful, and the joy is a sign of trust, resilience, and in my mind, friendship.
So, in the spirit of sharing that joy, we wanted to bring one more crew member with us, a symbol of what holds us together.
It is believed that "Joy" is the first swan to be used as a zero-g indicator. Northrop Grumman, an aerospace company that resupplies the space station for NASA, had swan dolls made in reference to its Cygnus series of cargo vehicles, but they were not used for the same purpose.

https://www.space.com/space-exploration/private-spaceflight/joy-a-plush-baby-swan-will-launch-with-axiom-mission-4-crew-as-zero-g-indicator

#23121342 at 2025-06-04 14:39:58 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28199: Boss Callin AutoPen BIGLY Obama Gate Opened Edition

Axiom Mission 4 Targets Launch No Earlier than Tuesday, June 10
June 3, 2025

NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX are targeting no earlier than 8:22 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, June 10, for launch of the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, Axiom Mission 4.
This shift allows teams to account for predicted inclement weather during the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft transport in addition to completing final processing of the spacecraft ahead of launch.

Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot.
The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

The crew will lift off aboard Dragon on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/03/axiom-mission-4-targets-launch-no-earlier-than-tuesday-june-10/
https://www.clickorlando.com/news/space-news/2025/06/03/nasa-moves-launch-date-for-next-axiom-private-mission-amid-weather-concerns/
https://www.axiomspace.com/missions/ax4

#23116733 at 2025-06-03 14:38:14 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28194: GM Melania Tuesday We All Gonna Live (Mabbe NOT Shills) Edition

Crew Preps for Fourth Axiom Private Mission, Keeps up Human Research
June 2, 2025

The Expedition 73 crew members are turning their attention to the upcoming fourth private mission from Axiom Space.
While the International Space Station crewmates prepare for the Ax-4 quartet's arrival aboard a SpaceX Dragon they also continued studying how their bodies are adapting to weightlessness in the midst of ongoing lab maintenance duties.

Axiom Mission-4 (Ax-4) is preparing for its launch to the orbital outpost this month carrying experienced astronaut Peggy Whitson as commander and three first-time space flyers including Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla from India and Mission Specialists S?awosz Uzana?ski-Wi?niewksi from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary to the orbital outpost.
NASA Flight Engineers Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers spent a portion of their shift on Monday reviewing procedures they will use from inside the space station when the Ax-4 crew aboard the Dragon approaches the space station to begin a two-week space research mission.

Earlier during her shift, McClain opened up the Destiny laboratory module's Combustion Integrated Rack and replaced experiment samples and research components inside the sealed chamber that allows exploration of how fuels and flames behave in weightlessness.
Ayers relocated and inspected hardware that monitors airborne particles in the station's atmosphere then staged hardware that will soon be stowed inside BEAM, or the Bigelow Expandable Activity Module.

NASA Flight Engineer Jonny Kim began a 48-hour session wearing a biomedical vest and headband being tested for their ability to comfortably measure a crew member's health data during daily activities.
Next, he wrapped up his shift stowing bags and cleaning up packing materials following the departure of the SpaceX Dragon cargo craft on May 23.

Station Commander Takuya Onishi of JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) worked on standard human research duties Monday collecting his blood, saliva, and urine samples for stowage in a science freezer and later analysis.
He also swapped a memory card inside radio frequency identification hardware, downloaded station acoustic data, and serviced the water storage system.

Veteran cosmonaut Sergey Ryzhikov assisted fellow Roscosmos Flight Engineer Alexey Zubritskiy who wore virtual reality glasses for an investigation of how a crew member's sense of balance and visual tracking adjust to microgravity.
Cosmonaut Kirill Peskov pointed a camera outside a window on the orbital outpost's Roscosmos segment and photographed landmarks including the Amazon delta, the Volga River delta, the Aral Sea, and more.

https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2025/06/02/crew-preps-for-fourth-axiom-private-mission-keeps-up-human-research/

#23103513 at 2025-05-31 14:29:30 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28180: One More Time Edition

2 trailblazing NASA astronauts inducted into U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame
May 31, 2025 12:35am EDT

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Two pioneering NASA astronauts - Dr. Bernard Harris and Dr. Peggy Whitson - are the newest members of the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame.

What we know:
Dr. Bernard Harris and Dr. Peggy Whitson were officially inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame on Saturday at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
Harris is recognized as the first Black NASA astronaut to perform a spacewalk, while Whitson holds the record for the most cumulative days in space by any woman - 665 in total - along with more than 60 hours of spacewalking experience.

The backstory:
Dr. Harris became an astronaut in 1991 and was inspired by the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969, which he watched as a child. Dr. Whitson, a biochemist by training, completed three long-term missions aboard the International Space Station and has played a pivotal role in advancing life sciences in microgravity environments.
Both astronauts broke barriers in their respective careers, helping pave the way for broader representation and expanded research in human spaceflight.

What they're saying:
The induction of Harris and Whitson highlights the growing diversity and resilience of NASA's astronaut corps. Their achievements symbolize historical milestones.
"I've been fascinated with science and science fiction since I was a kid," said Dr. Harris. "When I was 13 years old in 1969… I saw Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin land on the moon, and I was hooked."
"The thing that has been most important for me was actually challenging myself to do something I wasn't sure I would be successful at," said Dr. Whitson.
"It showed me I was actually even more capable than I ever imagined."

Whitson also encouraged others to grow through discomfort. "Live a little bit outside your comfort zone and challenge yourself."

https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/2-trailblazing-nasa-astronauts-inducted-u-s-astronaut-hall-fame

#23068893 at 2025-05-22 16:50:04 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28143: Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill PASSED Edition

https://www.space.com/space-exploration/private-spaceflight/ax-4-private-astronaut-mission-to-the-iss-is-go-for-its-june-8-spacex-launch
https://www.axiomspace.com/mission-blog/ax-4-mission-patch
https://www.axiomspace.com/mission-blog/axiomspace-ax4-frr

Ax-4 private astronaut mission to the ISS is 'go' for its June 8 SpaceX launch
May 22, 2025

The next private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS) just completed a major milestone ahead of its upcoming launch.
Houston-based company Axiom Space completed an internal Flight Readiness Review (FRR) on Wednesday (May 21) ahead of the launch of the company's fourth crewed mission to the ISS.
Ax-4 is on track for a liftoff next month on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket with a multinational crew aboard a brand-new Dragon spacecraft.
The mission is scheduled to get off the ground on June 8 at 9:11 a.m. EDT (1311 GMT), from Launch Complex-39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Wednesday's FRR confirmed that all systems and personnel are "go" for next month's launch, which will be the most research-intensive mission that Axiom has conducted to date.
During their roughly 14-day mission, the Ax-4 crewmembers are slated to complete more than 60 science and outreach activities aboard the ISS.
Ax-4 will be led by former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson. It will be Whitson's fifth orbital spaceflight, and her second for Axiom.
The upcoming mission will bring her total tally to nearly 700 days spent off Earth, extending her own American record.

Whitson's crewmates are pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India, mission specialist S?awosz Uzna?ski of Poland and the European Space Agency (ESA), and mission specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
Ax-4 will mark the first visit to the ISS by astronauts from India, Poland and Hungary, and the first spaceflight for each of these three people. "
This is realizing the return to human spaceflight for these countries," said Axiom Chief of Mission Services Allen Flynt during a May 20 press call. Poland, Hungary and India have all had astronauts fly to space before, but never to the space station.

"We believe that missions like Ax-4 will motivate our young minds to be passionate about space technology," said Sudeesh Balan, project director for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), during Tuesday's call.
The 60 experiments and outreach activities that Ax-4 will perform represent contributions from 31 countries. Dana Weigel, NASA's ISS program manager, described the mission as a "phenomenal way" to expand the space agency's research footprint on the ISS.
The recent 2026 "skinny budget" from the Trump administration proposes a nearly 25% cut to NASA's funding, including a reduction of crew and cargo missions to the ISS.
Exploration advocates have raised concerns about the agency's ability to conduct research aboard the orbital laboratory in such a budget environment.

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#23036841 at 2025-05-15 15:05:33 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28109: History Made = History Books Edition

NASA to Participate in Next Private Astronaut Mission Teleconference
May 14, 2025

NASA will join a media teleconference hosted by Axiom Space at 10:30 a.m. EDT, Tuesday, May 20, to discuss the launch of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station.

Briefing participants include:
Dana Weigel, manager, International Space Station Program, NASA
Allen Flynt, chief of mission services, Axiom Space
Sarah Walker, director, Dragon mission management, SpaceX
Sergio Palumberi, mission manager, ESA (European Space Agency)
Aleksandra Buka?a, project manager, head of strategy and international cooperation, POLSA (Polish Space Agency)
Orsolya Ferencz, ministerial commissioner of space research, HUNOR (Hungarian to Orbit)

To join the call, media must register with Axiom Space by 12 p.m., Monday, May 19, at: https://axiomspace.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Ut8jLK0cRjyfaZXu3Ch3sA#/

The Ax-4 launch aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft on the company's Falcon 9 rocket is targeted no earlier than 9:11 a.m., Sunday, June 8, from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
During the mission aboard the space station, a four-person multi-national crew will complete about 60 research experiments developed for microgravity in collaboration with organizations across the globe.

Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission, while ISRO astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot.
The two mission specialists are ESA project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

The first private astronaut mission to the station, Axiom Mission 1, lifted off in April 2022 for a 17-day mission aboard the orbiting laboratory.
The second private astronaut mission to the station, Axiom Mission 2, also was commanded by Whitson and launched in May 2023 for eight days in orbit.
The most recent private astronaut mission, Axiom Mission 3, launched in January 2024; the crew spent 18 days docked to the space station.

https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-to-participate-in-next-private-astronaut-mission-teleconference/

#22952106 at 2025-04-25 16:20:35 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #28014: Q Research General #28014: TGIF Czech: Judges Arrested Clean Up Edition

UAE study on diabetes heads to space to unlock new treatments
Updated: April 25, 2025, 5:13 AM

A UAE-led medical study heading to space could help astronauts with insulin-dependent diabetes join future missions and lead to new technologies that make treating the condition easier and more effective on Earth.
The research by Abu Dhabi's Burjeel Hospital and Houston-based Axiom Space will be carried out as part of the Axiom Mission 4, also known as Ax-4.
It will be launched on a SpaceX rocket from a Florida spaceport, with a target launch date currently set for May 29.

Ax-4 will include veteran Nasa astronaut Peggy Whitson, Shubhanshu Shukla, India's first astronaut since 1984, Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
Dr Mohammad Fityan, chief medical officer at Burjeel Medical City and clinical lead of the research, told The National that it is difficult to isolate the effects of gravity, muscle use and posture on glucose regulation, but Earth's orbit offers a unique advantage.

"In microgravity, changes in muscle mass, fluid distribution and circadian rhythm provide a new lens, through which we can study how glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity are regulated," he said.
"This can lead to insights that are not apparent under Earth conditions such as how quickly insulin resistance may develop without regular mechanical loading of muscles, or how hormonal and cellular responses adapt in the absence of gravity."

What are the tests?
The astronauts will wear continuous glucose monitors, commonly used by people on Earth, during their 14-day mission to track their blood sugar levels in real time while in microgravity.
They will follow a detailed schedule of tests before, during and after the mission to help researchers understand how well these monitors perform in orbit.
It will also test to see how insulin behaves in space by studying the drug's exposure to microgravity and checking its strength and stability once it returns to Earth.

"These findings may help us uncover novel regulatory pathways or early biomarkers for insulin resistance, potentially leading to preventive interventions long before diabetes manifests," said Dr Fityan.
The research aims to make space more accessible for people suffering from the disease.
Nasa currently does not consider patients with Type-1 diabetes eligible for spaceflight because of unpredictable blood sugar fluctuations and the challenges of administering insulin without immediate medical support.
The study also builds on a breakthrough from Virgin's Galactic 07 mission in June, which proved that insulin pens can work properly in microgravity.

What can be achieved?
Dr Fityan said the research could also lead to new technologies such as advanced glucose monitors designed for extreme environments, as well as artificial intelligence tools that can predict insulin needs with greater accuracy.
It may also help develop medications that improve insulin sensitivity or mimic the effects of exercise, offering better treatment options for people with limited mobility.
Figures from the International Diabetes Federation show that about 783 million people, or one in eight adults, will be living with diabetes by 2045, marking a 46 per cent increase.

In the North America and Caribbean region, the number is expected to rise by 24 per cent, while in the Middle East and North African region, it is projected to increase by 87 per cent.
"The technologies and advances that could result from this project could also improve our ability to provide remote care for patients with diabetes and other health conditions on Earth," said Dr Mike Harrison, chief medical officer at Axiom Space.

https://www.thenationalnews.com/future/space/2025/04/25/diabetes-space-treatment/

#22723844 at 2025-03-08 06:41:48 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #27761: ? Edition

'NASA insider JEFF NOSANOV blows the whistle on the space agency's plot to sabotage Elon Musk's rescue mission… at the cost of our stranded astronauts

The truth is out there.

Just don't expect to hear it from NASA.

Nearly everyone on Earth seems desperate to know how the true condition of American astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams whose 8-day mission to the International Space Station has turned into a nearly 9-month zero-gravity slog.

Back in June, they launched onboard Boeing's new Starliner crew capsule to the ISS, but after the capsule encountered a cascade of thruster issues and helium leaks, NASA decided it was too risky to use the vessel to return them to Earth.

Wilmore and Williams have been stuck ever since. But ask NASA about what's happening and you'll hear the same dubious answer over and again - that Wilmore and Williams are not 'stranded' and that they are, in fact, grateful to be floating through space, more than 250 miles above their families, for a total of 274 days.

Well, as a former manager at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, who worked inside the space agency for nearly a decade and is now an aerospace industry consultant, I know that NASA's words have to be parsed carefully.

The agency lost its way a long time ago.

It was stunning to hear NASA's Wilmore - a former Navy test pilot with three spaceflights under his belt - on Tuesday seemingly confirming SpaceX founder Elon Musk's claim that the astronauts could have already been rescued had the mission not been blocked by Joe Biden's White House.

'We offered to bring them back early, but the offer was rejected by the Biden administration,' Musk said Monday on Joe Rogan's podcast.

The following day, Wilmore appeared to support Musk when asked about the claim, 'I can only say that Mr. Musk, what he says, is absolutely factual.'

Wilmore's teenage daughter, Daryn, was even more emphatic in a recently resurfaced social media post from February: 'There's a lot of politics, there's a lot of things that I'm not at liberty to say… but there's been issues. There's been negligence. And that's the reason why this has just kept getting delayed.'

While I don't claim to know what was said behind closed doors at NASA - and even though I am no fan of Elon Musk who I believe is recklessly slashing away at the federal workforce - I wouldn't doubt his claims either.

No one on NASA's payroll is permitted to freely speak their mind. But as a former employee of the agency, I can tell you what I believe it to be the truth: our astronauts are at risk and allegations of political corruption at NASA are not to be dismissed.

First, spaceflight is inherently dangerous. Every time a human blasts off on a rocket ship, we are daring the universe to kill them.

And even though Wilmore and Williams may indeed be happy to spend more time than they anticipated in service to their country, they want to return home.

At 274 days in zero-gravity, 59-year-old Williams is nearing the record for the oldest woman to spend the longest stretch in space.

Peggy Whitson spent 289 days in space when she was 56 years old. And Whitson knew what she was getting into.

Williams - while aware of the peril of her mission - likely didn't expect to be in the running for a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.

We know that women face a higher threat of suffering from the effects of osteoporosis, a loss of bone density resulting in weak and brittle bones, than their male counterparts. And older women are at even greater risk.

When Williams returns to Earth, the physical toll that she paid will be studied.

And second, after decades in existence, NASA is adrift.

The agency was established in 1958 to beat the Soviet Union in the space race and it did - putting a man on the moon in 1969. But in the wake of the collapse of the USSR in 1991, NASA struggled to find a new purpose.

Consider that the Apollo 17 mission marked the last moon landing in 1972. By 1992, America sent astronauts into Earth orbit. In 1998, construction of the International Space Station began - and it was completed in 2011. But now in 2025, the US sends astronauts to the ISS but struggles to get them home. Our horizons have shrunk.

The problem is that NASA has become more concerned with granting federal contracts than boldly pursuing progress in manned spaceflight.

NASA's main contractor Boeing has also suffered in this aerospace era of burgeoning budgets and mediocracy.

All Americans are familiar with the problems plaguing Boeing's commercial airliners. After a door-plug blew off a Boeing 737 Max jetliner during an Alaska Airlines flight in January 2024, at least 20 whistleblowers came forward to allege that the aerospace giant was cutting corners on safety to rush out as many aircraft as possible.

In March, Boeing's CEO David Calhoun resigned along with several top executives.

Is it any surprise then that Boeing's manufacturing problems have extended to its aerospace division as well.

In June 2023, Boeing delayed the launch of the first Starliner capsule - its first to carry humans into space - because of the discovery of hundreds of feet of flammable adhesive tape used to secure the craft's wiring.

Last August when NASA decided the Starliner capsule was too unsafe to return to Earth with human onboard, Boeing executives in the meeting reportedly exploded.

'Boeing was convinced that the Starliner was in good enough condition to bring the astronauts home, and NASA disagreed. Strongly disagreed,' an anonymous NASA executive said at the time. 'The thinking around here was that Boeing was being wildly irresponsible.'

That's chilling.

Though still, there was hesitation inside NASA to cut Boeing loose.

After all, it was NASA who signed a $4.2 billion contract with Boeing to fund Starliner's development and the mission that left Williams and Wilmore stuck on the ISS.

Now, after numerous delays and far too much obfuscation, Musk has been tasked with bringing our astronauts home.

SpaceX is preparing to launch its new Dragon capsule in about two weeks to the ISS. Perhaps, in the end we'll have the best case scenario - Wilmore and Williams will be returned to their families as heroes and the truth will finally come out.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-14474299/NASA-astronauts-Elon-Musk-rescue-mission-JEFF-NOSANOV.html

#22720569 at 2025-03-07 18:50:58 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #27757: Trumps Says Russia Pounding Ukraine, Zelenskyy Cries Uncle Edition

Nearly everyone on Earth seems desperate to know how the true condition of American astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams whose 8-day mission to the International Space Station has turned into a nearly 9-month zero-gravity slog.
Back in June, they launched onboard Boeing's new Starliner crew capsule to the ISS, but after the capsule encountered a cascade of thruster issues and helium leaks, NASA decided it was too risky to use the vessel to return them to Earth.
Wilmore and Williams have been stuck ever since. But ask NASA about what's happening and you'll hear the same dubious answer over and again - that Wilmore and Williams are not 'stranded' and that they are, in fact, grateful to be floating through space, more than 250 miles above their families, for a total of 274 days.
Well, as a former manager at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, who worked inside the space agency for nearly a decade and is now an aerospace industry consultant, it is hard to believe a word that NASA says.
The agency lost its way a long time ago.
It was stunning to hear NASA's Wilmore - a former Navy test pilot with three spaceflights under his belt - on Tuesday seemingly confirming SpaceX founder Elon Musk's claim that the astronauts could have already been rescued had the mission not been blocked by Joe Biden's White House.
'We offered to bring them back early, but the offer was rejected by the Biden administration,' Musk said Monday on Joe Rogan's podcast.
The following day, Wilmore appeared to support Musk when asked about the claim, 'I can only say that Mr. Musk, what he says, is absolutely factual.'
Wilmore's teenage daughter, Daryn, was even more emphatic in a recently resurfaced social media post from February: 'There's a lot of politics, there's a lot of things that I'm not at liberty to say… but there's been issues. There's been negligence. And that's the reason why this has just kept getting delayed.'
While I don't claim to know what was said behind closed doors at NASA - and even though I am no fan of Elon Musk who I believe is recklessly slashing away at the federal workforce - I wouldn't doubt that his claims either.
No one on NASA's payroll is permitted to freely speak their mind. But as a former employee of the agency, I can tell you what I believe it to be the truth: our astronauts are at risk and allegations of political corruption at NASA are not to be dismissed.
First, spaceflight is inherently dangerous. Every time a human blasts off on a rocket ship, we are daring the universe to kill them.
And even though Wilmore and Williams may indeed be happy to spend more time than they anticipated in service to their country, they want to return home.
At 274 days in zero-gravity, 59-year-old Williams is nearing the record for the oldest woman to spend the longest stretch in space.
Peggy Whitson spent 289 days in space when she was 56 years old. And Whitson knew what she was getting into.
Williams - while aware of the peril of her mission - likely didn't expect to be in the running for a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.
We know that women face a higher threat of suffering from the effects of osteoporosis, a loss of bone density resulting in weak and brittle bones, than their male counterparts. And older women are at even greater risk.
When Williams returns to Earth, the physical toll that she paid will be studied.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-14474299/NASA-astronauts-Elon-Musk-rescue-mission-JEFF-NOSANOV.html

#22467184 at 2025-01-30 15:14:24 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #27466: KASH ONLY Edition

NASA, Partners to Welcome Fourth Axiom Space Mission to Space Station
Jan 29, 2025

NASA and its international partners have approved the crew for Axiom Space's fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, launching from the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida no earlier than spring 2025.
Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot.
The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut S?awosz Uzna?ski-Wi?niewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.

"I am excited to see continued interest and dedication for the private astronaut missions aboard the International Space Station," said Dana Weigel, manager of NASA's International Space Station Program at the agency's Johnson Space Center in Houston.
"As NASA looks toward the future of low Earth orbit, private astronaut missions help pave the way and expand access to the unique microgravity environment."

The Axiom Mission 4, or Ax-4, crew will launch aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and travel to the space station.
Once docked, the private astronauts plan to spend up to 14 days aboard the orbiting laboratory, conducting a mission comprised of science, outreach, and commercial activities.
The mission will send the first ISRO astronaut to the station as part of a joint effort between NASA and the Indian space agency.
The private mission also carries the first astronauts from Poland and Hungary to stay aboard the space station.

"Working with the talented and diverse Ax-4 crew has been a deeply rewarding experience," said Whitson.
"Witnessing their selfless dedication and commitment to expanding horizons and creating opportunities for their nations in space exploration is truly remarkable.
Each crew member brings unique strengths and perspectives, making our mission not just a scientific endeavor, but a testament to human ingenuity and teamwork.
The importance of our mission is about pushing the limits of what we can achieve together and inspiring future generations to dream bigger and reach farther."

The first private astronaut mission to the station, Axiom Mission 1, lifted off in April 2022 for a 17-day mission aboard the orbiting laboratory.
The second private astronaut mission to the station, Axiom Mission 2, also was commanded by Whitson and launched in May 2023 with four private astronauts who spent eight days in orbit.
The most recent private astronaut mission, Axiom Mission 3, launched in January 2024; the crew spent 18 days docked to the space station.

The International Space Station is a convergence of science, technology, and human innovation that enables research not possible on Earth.
For more than 24 years, NASA has supported a continuous human presence aboard the orbiting laboratory, through which astronauts have learned to live and work in space for extended periods of time.

The space station is a springboard for developing a low Earth economy.
NASA's goal is to achieve a strong economy in low Earth orbit where the agency can purchase services as one of many customers to meet its science and research objectives in microgravity.
NASA's commercial strategy for low Earth orbit will provide the government with reliable and safe services at a lower cost, enabling the agency to focus on Artemis missions to the Moon in preparation for Mars while also continuing to use low Earth orbit as a training and proving ground for those deep space missions.

https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-partners-to-welcome-fourth-axiom-space-mission-to-space-station/
https://www.axiomspace.com/missions/ax4

#22459184 at 2025-01-29 15:00:04 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #27456: Wednesday Morning Rise & Shine Edition

>>22459183
Peggy Whitson, Ph.D., STS-111, ISS Expedition 5, STS-113, ISS Expedition 16, ISS Expedition 50/51/52
Peggy Whitson, Ph.D., grew up on a farm outside of Beaconsfield, Iowa, with her siblings and parents, who were farmers. She decided to become an astronaut after she watched the first moon landing on television as a child in 1969.
As an astronaut, she flew on three NASA long-duration space flights and served as commander of Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2), accumulating 675 days in space, more than any other American astronaut or woman astronaut in the world.

Whitson has more than 38 years of space and science experience combined with NASA and Axiom Space. Throughout her career, she has held various positions, including NASA's Chief of the Astronaut Office, two-time Commander of the International Space Station (ISS), Chair of NASA's Astronaut Selection Board, NASA Operations Branch Chief, NASA Deputy Division Chief for both Medical Sciences and the Astronaut Office, and co-chair of the US/Russian Mission Science Working Group.

During her three NASA missions to the ISS (Expeditions 5, 16 and 50/51/52), Whitson conducted 10 spacewalks - totaling more than 60 hours - and performed hundreds of research experiments.
On her first long-duration ISS mission on Expedition 5, she was named the first NASA science officer, conducting 21 investigations in human life sciences and microgravity sciences, as well as commercial payloads.

Throughout her career she has contributed to hundreds of experiments in biology, biotechnology, physical and Earth science and welcomed several cargo spacecraft delivering tons of supplies and research experiments.
On Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2), she became the first female commander of a private astronaut mission, adding to her accomplishments as the first female commander of the ISS and the first female and nonmilitary Chief of NASA's Astronaut Office.

Whitson will command her second commercial human spaceflight mission to the ISS, Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), targeted to launch no earlier than spring 2025 from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
Whitson received degrees in biology and chemistry from Iowa Wesleyan University and a doctoral degree in biochemistry from Rice University.

She has been honored with various NASA medals in leadership, outstanding leadership, and exceptional service, as well as National Air and Space Museum's Michael Collins Lifetime Achievement Award (2024), Forbes 50 Over 50, Innovation (2023), Glamour's Woman of the Year (2017), TIME 100 Most Influential People in the World (2018), and Women in Aviation Lifetime Achievement Award (2017) among numerous other prestigious awards.

2/2

#22459183 at 2025-01-29 14:59:51 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #27456: Wednesday Morning Rise & Shine Edition

https://spacecoastdaily.com/2025/01/two-veteran-nasa-astronauts-to-be-inducted-into-u-s-astronaut-hall-of-fame-at-kennedy-space-center/

Two Veteran NASA Astronauts to be Inducted into U. S. Astronaut Hall of Fame at Kennedy Space Center
January 29, 2025

The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation's Curt Brown has announced the 2025 U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame inductees.
Veteran NASA astronauts Bernard Harris and Peggy Whitson will join the 109 astronauts who have been inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, located at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Induction is scheduled for May 31.

"The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame welcomes two exceptional and trailblazing veterans of the space program who contributed significantly to NASA's mission and program," said Curt Brown, board chairman of the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, which stewards the selection process.
"Harris and Whitson continue to serve as exemplary role models in their post-NASA careers. What a tremendous honor to induct them into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex."

An official ceremony and gala will take place at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on May 31, 2025.
Set against the historic and stunning backdrop of the Space Shuttle Atlantis, the ceremony will be attended by a number of astronaut legends.
Following the induction, the newest Hall of Fame members will be celebrated at an evening black-tie event hosted by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation.

Both Harris and Whitson had careers with NASA beyond the time they served as astronauts, with Harris working with NASA for 10 years and Whitson for 37 years.
Currently, Harris works in the venture capital field, while Whitson has continued her passion for space and exploration as astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space.

Bernard Harris, MD, MBA, FACP, STS-55 & STS-63
Since 1986, Dr. Harris has served the space program, at NASA Ames Space Flight Center, NASA Johnson Space Flight Center and NASA Headquarters in various roles as research scientist, flight surgeon, astronaut, and advisor.
During his NASA career, Dr. Bernard Harris conducted research in musculoskeletal physiology and clinical investigations of space adaptation, where he developed in-flight medical devices to extend Astronaut stays in space.

A veteran astronaut for more than thirty years, Harris served as mission specialist on STS-55 and was the Payload Commander on STS-63. He has logged more than 438 hours and traveled more than 7.2 million miles in space.
On February 9, 1995, Harris became the first African American to perform an extra-vehicular activity during the second of his two Space Shuttle flights.

Harris is currently CEO & Managing Partner of Vesalius Ventures, Inc. - a venture capital firm, that invests in early to mid-stage Healthcare technologies and companies.
Previously, he served as CEO and Executive Director of the National Math & Science Initiative, leading the organization's efforts to improve teacher effectiveness and student achievement in communities across the country.

He has been involved in math and science education for more than 25 years through his philanthropy as founder of the Harris Institute & Foundation.
A member of the Board of Directors for Raytheon Technologies, MassMutual, Solventum and U.S. Physical Therapy, Harris also served as a Board Director/Trustee for Salient Midstream & MLP Fund and Salient MF Trust, Barings Fund and BBDC.

Additionally, he is on the nonprofit boards of the Texas Medical Center (past Chair), the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation and the Harris Institute & Foundation.
Harris earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Houston, a Master of Medical Science from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston and a Doctorate of Medicine from Texas Tech University School of Medicine.

Harris completed a Residency in Internal Medicine at the Mayo Clinic, a National Research Council Fellowship in Endocrinology at the NASA Ames Research Center and trained as a Flight Surgeon at the Aerospace School of Medicine, Brooks Air Force Base.
He is also a licensed private pilot and certified scuba diver.
Harris has received numerous prestigious awards. Among them are nine honorary doctorate, two NASA Space Flight Medal, the NASA Award of Merit, the National Space Grant Distinguished Services Award and the James Bryant Conant Award.

He also is a fellow of the American College of Physicians, a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the recipient of the 2000 Horatio Alger Award and 2024 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.
In addition to his other notable accomplishments, Harris is the author of "Dream Walker: A Journey of Achievement and Inspiration" and "Embracing Infinite Possibilities: Letting Go Of Fear To Find Your Highest Potential".

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#22284930 at 2025-01-03 15:43:19 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #27259: Federal Bureau of Kek Edition

Iowa Astronaut Peggy Whitson to lead Axiom's mission to the International Space Station
Fri, January 3rd 2025 at 7:17 AM

Iowa native and astronaut Peggy Whitson will command a historic mission this year.
Axiom Space's Ax-4 mission will take a crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station. The mission is set to launch launch no earlier than spring 2025.

Whitson will lead an international crew, including pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India and mission specialists Sawosz Uznaski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
The crew began training in August at Axiom Space headquarters in Houston.

As part of their preparation, the Ax-4 crew traveled to SpaceX in Hawthorne, California, for suit fittings and pressurization tests.
They also familiarized themselves with the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and Falcon 9 rocket.

The crew is awaiting final approval to fly to the International Space Station from the Multilateral Crew Operations Panel. Ax-4 will be Axiom Space's fourth commercial mission to the ISS.
Whitson, who has spent more than 665 days in space, previously commanded the International Space Station twice.

https://cbs2iowa.com/news/local/iowa-astronaut-Peggy-Whitson-to-lead-axioms-mission-to-the-international-space-station

#22222083 at 2024-12-24 19:11:37 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #27190: Let it Rain #Christmas Edition

>>22222079
CONT: NASA GRIFT CONTINUES https://www.npr.org/2024/02/21/1232639289/international-space-station-retirement-space-stations-future February 21, 2024

atens says a new space station will have updated research facilities.

"I'm looking forward to seeing very modern laboratory equipment on these space stations. We say the International Space Station has a lot of capability, but it's more like a test kitchen. I'm looking forward to seeing the future commercial space stations take these laboratory capabilities and really develop them into state-of-the-art space laboratories," said Gatens.

On top of having modern research facilities, new space stations will likely be designed to provide a cleaner environment for researchers.

"If you see pictures of the station, you'll think 'how can they work there?' It looks cluttered, it looks messy," Astronaut Peggy Whitson told NPR. She's spent more time in space than any other woman and is the first woman to command the ISS. Whitson is now Director of Human Spaceflight and an astronaut at Axiom Space, one of the companies funded by NASA to develop a space station.

Whitson said the reason there are cables all over the place is because the structure of the station wasn't designed for some of the systems it has now. She thinks having a method for making a station even more adaptable to new technology will be important in terms of user experience.

Whitson doesn't know what technology will be available five years from now. But she said Axiom Space will want to take advantage of whatever they can get their hands on, ideally without wires everywhere.


"I would like all that cabling and networking to be behind the panels so that it's easier for folks to move around in space," Whitson said. "Having and building in that adaptability is one of the most critical parts, I think, of building a station for low-Earth orbit."

Paulo Lozano says many of the electronic components on the ISS are bulky. But now that electronics are smaller, she expects the interior of future stations might be a bit different.

At the current ISS, there is one small inflatable module. That structure flies up, collapsed, and then expands as it gets filled with air once it's attached to the primary structure of the station - with it literally blowing up kind of like a balloon. Gatens says they are looking at multiple elements of a new space station being inflatable.

Whitson told NPR that on the space station Axiom Space is developing, they will have windows in the crew quarters and a huge cupola, what she describes as an astronaut's window to the world. On the ISS, they have a cupola you can pop your head and shoulders into and see 360-degree views of space and look down at the Earth.

On the proposed Axiom space station, Whitson said the cupola is so large that astronauts will be able to float their whole body in there and have it be an experience of basically almost flying in space.

Why commercialize low-Earth orbit?
NASA hopes that by handing responsibility of an ISS replacement over to private companies, it will allow the agency to develop technology more quickly and focus on their next goal of putting a station beyond low-Earth orbit for the first time. Current proposed low-Earth orbit stations include the Lunar Gateway, which is NASA's planned space station on the moon.

"What the space stations of today are doing is just paving the way for humans to actually explore deeper into space, which is going to be a significantly harder challenge to accomplish. The space stations of today are essential stepping stones towards that goal," said Lozano.

Gatens says one piece of technology that is being developed at Blue Origin is a big rotating space station that, when finished, would have artificial gravity.

For long trips in space, the lack of gravity is a main issue for the human body, causing bone-loss and other health issues. "If you could recreate that in space, that will be very beneficial," Gatens said.

Lozano says that a space station beyond low-Earth orbit would need new technology that is radically different from what's been used in the ISS. And both NASA and Lozano don't think it is possible to venture deeper into space, and eventually get a human on Mars, with U.S. government funding alone.

"I don't think we're very far away in terms of technology development. I think we're a little bit far away in terms of investment, because space technology is quite expensive and sometimes a single nation cannot really make it work by itself. So you need international cooperation." Lozano said.

>>22222072
>>22221907

#22038593 at 2024-11-22 18:28:50 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #26984: Judge Postpones Sentencing Edition

SpaceX and NASA show off how Starship will help astronauts land on the moon
Nov, 21, 2024

SpaceX and NASA have released new artwork detailing how the company's Starship rocket might ferry Artemis astronauts to the surface of the moon.
The renders show a variety of maneuvers and steps that SpaceX's reusable Starship vehicle will be required to perform as part of NASA's current plan for the Artemis 3 moon mission, currently slated for no earlier than 2026.

Under the current mission architecture, Starship (a version of it known as the Human Landing System) will dock in lunar orbit with NASA's Orion spacecraft Artemis astronauts will move from the capsule into the SpaceX vehicle.
From there, Starship will take the astronauts down to the surface of the moon, placing human boots on our lunar companion for the first time since 1972.

In one of the images, a sleek, white version of Starship's Human Landing System (HLS) docks nose-to-nose with Orion in orbit around the moon.
During this part of the mission, NASA's Artemis 3 astronauts would transfer from Orion into HLS.

One of the renders show two Starships, one normal configuration and one HLS variant, docking belly to belly in order to transfer fuel from one to the other.
Because HLS will be carrying heavy equipment destined for the moon, it will use up a lot of fuel escaping Earth's gravity.
It will need to be refueled on its journey to the moon, so SpaceX is developing an orbital propellant transfer technique.
The company tested a different version of the transfer on Starship's third integrated flight test.

As seen in the images, this HLS variant of Starship has a significantly different configuration than the standard version of the spacecraft.
The HLS in the renders has windows for the crew to look out of, and does not feature the fins found on typical Starship variants.

The HLS in these new illustrations also features a sleek white finish, as opposed to the stainless steel finish dotted with black thermal protection tiles seen on other Starships.
One of the renders shows two astronauts in Axiom Space moon suits making their way down to the lunar surface in an elevator.

Two astronauts, Axiom Space's Peggy Whitson and NASA's Doug Wheelock, tested such a capability in June 2024 when they donned Axiom's suits and carried out tests using an HLS mockup at SpaceX headquarters in California.
The test confirmed that there is enough space in the planned HLS airlock, deck and elevator for astronauts to carry out their mission while in Axiom's suits.

Another illustration portrays SpaceX's Starship HLS with two of its six Raptor engines lit as it performs a braking burn prior to attempting to land on the moon.
NASA has delayed Artemis 3 until September 2026, after setting an initial target of 2024.
The delays are due to hardware development problems, including issues with Orion's heat shield and the prolonged development timeline that SpaceX has faced getting Starship ready for orbital flight.

SpaceX's proposed timelines for Starship have been optimistic, to say the least.
The company's president and chief operating officer, Gwynne Shotwell, said in 2019 that the company would be landing cargo on Mars with Starship "in five years."
Five years later, in 2024, Starship has yet to complete an orbital flight, although the company has made significant progress on each of the rocket's six test flights.

https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/spacex-and-nasa-show-off-how-starship-will-help-astronauts-land-on-the-moon-images

#20366793 at 2024-02-06 16:36:50 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #24987: Hearing on the Weaponization of the Federal Government

879 days! Russian cosmonaut breaks record for total time spent in space
Feb 6, 2024

The spaceflight record books have just been rewritten.

Over the weekend, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko set a new mark for most total days spent off Earth, eclipsing the 878 days, 11 hours and 30 minutes of his countryman Gennady Padalka, according to Russia's state-run TASS news agency.

Kononenko launched to the International Space Station (ISS) last September for a stay that could last a full year, so he will continue to add to his newly set record for a while yet.

"It is expected that Oleg Kononenko will reach a total of 1,000 days in space on June 5, 2024 at 00:00:20 Moscow time. And upon completion of the annual expedition (September 23, 2024), [his] total flight time will be 1,110 days," Russia's federal space agency Roscosmos wrote in a post on Telegram. (The original post is in Russian; translation by Google.)

Soviet and Russian cosmonauts dominate the spaceflight-duration record book. They hold the top eight slots on the most-total-time-in-space list, for example. Peggy Whitson, whose 675 days off Earth are the most by a NASA astronaut, is number nine overall.

And cosmonaut Valery Polyakov holds the single-flight duration record, spending nearly 438 consecutive days aboard Russia's Mir space station from January 1994 to March 1995.

The top American on that list is Frank Rubio, who recently spent 371 days aboard the ISS after his original ride home, a Russian Soyuz spacecraft, sprang a leak in orbit and had to be replaced.

The current mission is Kononenko's fifth spaceflight. He's currently serving as a flight engineer on the orbiting lab's Expedition 70, but he's scheduled to take the station's reins later this month, when current commander Andreas Mogenson comes back to Earth with the rest of SpaceX's Crew-7 mission.

The Crew-7 quartet will be replaced by the four astronauts of Crew-8, which is scheduled to lift off on Feb. 22 from Florida's Space Coast.

https://www.space.com/cosmonaut-oleg-kononenko-breaks-record-time-in-space

#19012788 at 2023-06-15 20:41:14 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #23345: eBaked'd Edition

NASA Spacewalkers Finish Installing Roll-Out Solar Array
June 15, 2023

Expedition 69 Flight Engineers Woody Hoburg and Steve Bowen of NASA concluded their spacewalk at 2:17 p.m. EDT after 5 hours and 35 minutes.

Hoburg and Bowen completed their major objective to install an IROSA (International Space Station Roll-Out Solar Array) to augment power generation for the 1B power channel on the station's starboard truss structure.

The new array is 60 feet long by 20 feet wide (18.2 meters by 6 meters) and is shading a little more than half of the original array, which is 112 feet long by 39 feet wide. Each new IROSA produces more than 20 kilowatts of electricity and together enable a 30% increase in power production over the station's current arrays.

NASA and Boeing have a plan in place for a fourth set of roll-out arrays to further augment the International Space Station's power supply. These arrays, which would be the seventh and eighth installed on space station, are targeted for delivery to the orbital outpost in 2025.

It was the 265th spacewalk in support of space station assembly, upgrades, and maintenance. The spacewalk marked the second for Hoburg and tenth for Bowen, tying him for the most spacewalks by a U.S. astronaut along with Mike Lopez-Alegria, Bob Behnken, Peggy Whitson, and Chris Cassidy.

https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2023/06/15/nasa-spacewalkers-finish-installing-roll-out-solar-array/

#18936665 at 2023-06-01 21:05:46 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #23248: We Take PRIDE in President Trump! Edition

Ax-2 Post-Return Crew Press Conference
June 1, 2023

After returning to Earth from a 10-day mission in space, the astronauts of the Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2) will participate in a press conference to share their experience and highlight the work conducted during the second all-private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS).

The Ax-2 crew includes Axiom Space's Director of Human Spaceflight and Commander Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut, Pilot John Shoffner, and Mission Specialists Ali Alqarni and Rayyanah Barnawi, from the Saudi Space Commission (SSC). Both are members of the inaugural Saudi national astronaut class.

https://www.axiomspace.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNFBI3dJEbs

#18927732 at 2023-05-31 02:05:30 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #23236: Fibonacci Edition

Ax-2 Mission | Splashdown

On Tuesday, May 30 at 11:05 a.m. ET, Dragon autonomously undocked from the International Space Station. After performing a series of burns to move away from the space station, Dragon will conduct multiple orbit-lowering maneuvers, jettison its trunk, and re-enter Earth's atmosphere, landing off the coast of Florida twelve hours later at approximately 11:04 p.m. ET.

Aboard the spacecraft will be Ax-2 astronauts Peggy Whitson, John Shoffner, Ali Alqarni, and Rayyanah Barnawi, who flew to the space station on Dragon when Falcon 9 launched the spacecraft from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Sunday, May 21 at 5:37 p.m. ET.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTLmuhsMYMM
https://www.axiomspace.com/

#18927380 at 2023-05-31 00:49:02 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #23236: Fibonacci Edition

New record! 17 people are in Earth orbit at the same time right now
May 30, 2023

The total number of people in Earth orbit is now at a record high, though only for a short time.

With the launch of China's three-person Shenzhou 16 mission on Monday (May 29) at 9:31 p.m. EDT (0131 GMT or 9:31 a.m. Beijing Time on May 30), the population in orbit grew to 17.

The previous record, set during the privately funded Inspiration4 mission in September 2021, was 14 people.

The current count is comprised by four crews:
- Shenzhou 16 (three people) - Chinese taikonauts Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu and Gui Haichao, now aboard China's Tiangong space station.
- Shenzhou 15 (three people) - Fei Junlong, Deng Qingming and Zhang Lu, who have been aboard Tiangong since November 2022 and who are expected to return to Earth in early June.
- Expedition 69 (seven people) - Cosmonauts Sergey Prokopyev, Dmitry Petelin and Andrey Fedyaev of Russia's federal space corporate Roscosmos; astronauts Frank Rubio, Stephen Bowen and Warren "Woody" Hoburg of NASA; and Emirati astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on the International Space Station (ISS).
- Axiom-2 (four people) - Axiom Space astronaut Peggy Whitson, private astronaut John Shoffner and Saudi Arabian astronauts Ali AlQarni and Rayyanah Barnawi, who departed the ISS aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon "Freedom" to return to Earth on Tuesday (May 30).
- The Ax-2 crew is scheduled to splash down off the coast of Florida at about 11:04 p.m. EDT on Tuesday (0304 GMT on Wednesday, May 31), leaving 13 people in Earth orbit.

By coincidence, the current record includes the 600th person to enter Earth orbit. Ax-2 mission specialist Barnawi became the sexcentenarian orbital space traveler, as well as the first Saudi woman in space, when she and her crew launched on May 21.

The record for most people in space (rather than just Earth orbit) at once was reset recently, too, and lasted an even shorter amount of time. For about 5 minutes, there were 20 people off the planet.

That record was set by the six members of Virgin Galactic Unity 25 SpaceShipTwo crew, whose suborbital spaceflight coincided with three Chinese taikonauts living aboard Tiangong and 11 astronauts, cosmonauts and spaceflight participants on board the International Space Station.
- SpaceShipTwo Unity 25 (six people): Michael Masucci, CJ Sturckow, Beth Moses, Luke Mays, Jamila Gilbert and Christopher Huie.
- Shenzhou 15 (three people) - Fei Junlong, Deng Qingming and Zhang Lu.
- Expedition 69 (seven people) - U.S. astronauts Frank Rubio, Stephen Bowen and Warren "Woody" Hoburg; Russian cosmonauts Sergey Prokopyev, Dmitry Petelin and Andrey Fedyaev; and Sultan AlNeyadi of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
- Axiom Space Ax-2 (four people) - Peggy Whitson, John Stoffner, Ali AlQarni and Rayyanah Barnawi.

The previous record for the most people in space at once was set during Blue Origin's New Shepard NS-19 suborbital flight on Dec. 11, 2021, when there were briefly 19 people off Earth.

https://www.space.com/record-17-people-in-earth-orbit-at-once

#18924928 at 2023-05-30 15:01:15 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #23233: Reminder - June is Groomer Month Edition

Axiom Mission 2 Undocks from the International Space Station
May 30, 2023

After more than a week aboard the International Space Station, the four private astronauts of Axiom Space's Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2) are scheduled to undock from the station at 11:05 a.m. EDT (1505 UTC) on Tuesday, May 30.

Led by retired NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, the crew of Ax-2-Whitson, pilot John Shoffner, and mission specialists Ali Alqarni and Rayyanah Barnawi-engaged in technology demonstrations, spoke with students around the world, and contributed to scientific experiments ranging from cancer treatments to weather research.

NASA's integrated coverage of Axiom Mission 2 will conclude after the crew departs from the station in their SpaceX Dragon Freedom spacecraft. Ax-2 will splash down off the coast of Florida later today; follow Axiom Space and SpaceX on social media for Ax-2 splashdown updates:

https://www.axiomspace.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUW6gYejG6E

#18882309 at 2023-05-21 20:55:14 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #23179: To Be Collected Edition

Axiom Mission 2 Launches to the International Space Station

Axiom Mission 2, set to lift off at 5:37 p.m. EDT (2137 UTC) on Sunday, May 21, is the second all-private astronaut mission to the International Space Station. Ax-2 is launching from NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard SpaceX's Dragon Freedom spacecraft-it's the same capsule that carried NASA's SpaceX Crew-4 astronauts to the station in 2022.

During their scheduled eight-day stay aboard the orbiting laboratory, the crew of Ax-2-commander Peggy Whitson, pilot John Shoffner, and mission specialists Ali Alqarni and Rayyanah Barnawi-will engage in technology demonstrations, student outreach, and scientific experiments ranging from cancer treatments to weather research.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osqZvV-RdCE
https://www.axiomspace.com/

#18842400 at 2023-05-13 22:34:10 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #23128: Rally Postponed, War Still On Edition

NASA Sets Coverage for Axiom Mission 2 Briefings, Events, Broadcast
May 12, 2023

NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX will provide coverage of the upcoming prelaunch and launch activities for Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2), the second private astronaut mission to the International Space Station.

NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency's website will feature some prelaunch and launch activities, as well as docking operations.

Liftoff is scheduled for 5:37 p.m. EDT Sunday, May 21, from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crew will travel to the orbiting outpost aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, named Freedom, after launching on the company's Falcon 9 rocket.

The Ax-2 crew members are Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot John Shoffner, and Mission Specialists Ali Alqarni and Rayyanah Barnawi representing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

NASA's mission responsibility is for integrated operations, which begins during the spacecraft's approach to the International Space Station, continues during the crew's stay aboard the orbiting laboratory conducting science, education, and commercial activities, and concludes once Dragon exits the area of the space station.

https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-sets-coverage-for-axiom-mission-2-briefings-events-broadcast

#18341891 at 2023-02-13 23:48:11 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #22482: Vengeful and Upset Edition

NASA, Partners Clear Axiom's Second Private Astronaut Mission Crew
Feb 13, 2023

NASA and its international partners have approved the crew for Axiom Space's second private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2).

Axiom Space's Director of Human Spaceflight and former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson will command the privately funded mission. John Shoffner of Knoxville, Tennessee, will serve as pilot. The two mission specialists, Ali Alqarni and Rayyanah Barnawi from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), are members of the inaugural Saudi national astronaut program. They are flying through an arrangement between KSA and Axiom Space.

"Enabling more people to go to space is an important component of NASA's continuing efforts to grow the low-Earth orbit economy," said Angela Hart, manager of NASA's Commercial Low-Earth Orbit Development Program. "Private astronaut missions are a key component to enable a successful transition to a model of commercially owned and operated platforms in low-Earth orbit. I appreciate the commitment of our International Space Station and commercial partners to help us achieve this future."

The Ax-2 crew will launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and travel to the space station. Once docked, the private astronauts plan to spend 10 days aboard the orbiting laboratory implementing a full mission of science, outreach, and commercial activities. The mission, targeted for launch in spring 2023, will be the first private space mission to include both private astronauts and astronauts representing foreign governments, as well as the first private mission commanded by a woman.

"Axiom Space's second private astronaut mission to the International Space Station cements our mission of expanding access to space worldwide and supporting the growth of the low-Earth orbit economy as we build Axiom Station," said Michael Suffredini, president and CEO of Axiom Space. "Ax-2 moves Axiom Space one step closer toward the realization of a commercial space station in low-Earth orbit and enables us to build on the legacy and achievements of the station, leveraging the benefits of microgravity to better life on Earth."

Whitson will become the first female commander of a private space mission, adding to her prior accomplishments, including as NASA's chief astronaut and the first female commander of the space station. In addition, she will add to her standing record for the longest cumulative time in space by a NASA astronaut.

"I'm honored to be heading back to the station for the fourth time, leading this talented Ax-2 crew on their first mission," said Whitson. "This is a strong and cohesive team determined to conduct meaningful scientific research in space and inspire a new generation about the benefits of microgravity. It's a testament to the power of science and discovery to unify and build international collaboration."

Shoffner, a businessman, has always had an interest in space, the stars, and flying, becoming a pilot at the age of 17 and since amassing than 8,500 flight hours and earning ratings for multiple aircraft types. He also is an advocate for science, technology engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education.

The first private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, Axiom Mission 1 (Ax-1), launched April 8, 2022, with four private astronauts who spent 17 days in orbit working on 26 science payloads aboard the station and conducting more than 30 STEAM educational and public outreach engagements. The crew splashed down off the coast of Florida on April 25, 2022, to conclude the mission.

Private astronaut missions to the space station are a precursor to privately funded commercial space stations as part of NASA's efforts to develop a thriving low-Earth orbit ecosystem and marketplace. NASA is currently reviewing proposals for the third and fourth private astronaut missions to the space station.

https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-partners-clear-axiom-s-second-private-astronaut-mission-crew

#1798711 at 2018-06-18 17:13:56 (UTC+1)
Q Research General #2265: Space Force Edition

Trump original directive
New Space Policy Directive Calls for Human Expansion Across Solar System
The president Monday signed at the White House Space Policy Directive 1, a change in national space policy that provides for a U.S.-led, integrated program with private sector partners for a human return to the Moon, followed by missions to Mars and beyond.
The policy calls for the NASA administrator to "lead an innovative and sustainable program of exploration with commercial and international partners to enable human expansion across the solar system and to bring back to Earth new knowledge and opportunities." The effort will more effectively organize government, private industry, and international efforts toward returning humans on the Moon, and will lay the foundation that will eventually enable human exploration of Mars.

"The directive I am signing today will refocus America's space program on human exploration and discovery," said President Trump. "It marks a first step in returning American astronauts to the Moon for the first time since 1972, for long-term exploration and use. This time, we will not only plant our flag and leave our footprints – we will establish a foundation for an eventual mission to Mars, and perhaps someday, to many worlds beyond."

The policy grew from a unanimous recommendation by the new National Space Council, chaired by Vice President Mike Pence, after its first meeting Oct. 5. In addition to the direction to plan for human return to the Moon, the policy also ends NASA's existing effort to send humans to an asteroid. The president revived the National Space Council in July to advise and help implement his space policy with exploration as a national priority.

"Under President Trump's leadership, America will lead in space once again on all fronts," said Vice President Pence. "As the President has said, space is the 'next great American frontier' - and it is our duty - and our destiny - to settle that frontier with American leadership, courage, and values. The signing of this new directive is yet another promise kept by President Trump."

Among other dignitaries on hand for the signing, were NASA astronauts Sen. Harrison "Jack" Schmitt, Buzz Aldrin, Peggy Whitson and Christina Koch. Schmitt landed on the moon 45 years to the minute that the policy directive was signed as part of NASA's Apollo 17 mission, and is the most recent living person to have set foot on our lunar neighbor. Aldrin was the second person to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission. Whitson spoke to the president from space in April aboard the International Space Station and while flying back home after breaking the record for most time in space by a U.S. astronaut in September. Koch is a member of NASA's astronaut class of 2013.

Work toward the new directive will be reflected in NASA's Fiscal Year 2019 budget request next year.

"NASA looks forward to supporting the president's directive strategically aligning our work to return humans to the Moon, travel to Mars and opening the deeper solar system beyond," said acting NASA Administrator Robert Lightfoot. "This work represents a national effort on many fronts, with America leading the way. We will engage the best and brightest across government and private industry and our partners across the world to reach new milestones in human achievement. Our workforce is committed to this effort, and even now we are developing a flexible deep space infrastructure to support a steady cadence of increasingly complex missions that strengthens American leadership in the boundless frontier of space. The next generation will dream even bigger and reach higher as we launch challenging new missions, and make new discoveries and technological breakthroughs on this dynamic path."

A piece of Moon rock was brought to the White House as a reminder of the exploration history and American successes at the Moon on which the new policy will build. Lunar Sample 70215 was retrieved from the Moon's surface and returned by Schmitt's Apollo 17 crew. Apollo 17 was the last Apollo mission to land astronauts on the Moon and returned with the greatest amount of rock and soil samples for investigation.

The sample is a basaltic lava rock similar to lava found in Hawaii. It crystallized 3.84 billion years ago when lava flowed from the Camelot Crater. Sliced off a parent rock that originally weighed 8,110 grams, the sample weighs 14 grams, and is very fine grained, dense and tough. During the six Apollo surface excursions from 1969 to 1972, astronauts collected 2,196 rock and soil samples weighting 842 pounds. Scientific studies help us learn about the geologic history of the Moon, as well as Earth. They help us understand the mineral and chemical resources available to support future lunar exploration.