The crew of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) successfully launched today at 2:31 a.m. ET from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is now in orbit and scheduled to dock with the International Space Station at approximately 7:00 a.m. ET on June 26, connecting to the space-facing port of the Harmony module.
Ax-4 represents a pivotal moment in the growth of commercial human spaceflight. For the first time in history, astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary will fly together to the International Space Station as part of a government-sponsored mission — with each nation returning to human spaceflight after more than four decades.
The Ax-4 crewmembers are Commander Peggy Whitson of the U.S., Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India, Mission Specialist Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland, and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
“This mission shows that space exploration is no longer limited to a few nations — it’s a shared effort that reflects the best of what we can achieve together,” said Commander Peggy Whitson. “We launched a message to the world that science, exploration, and unity transcend borders. For me, returning to space is always a privilege. But leading this crew — representing the dreams and determination of India, Poland, and Hungary as they return to human spaceflight — that’s something truly special. We’re carrying the hopes of millions who dare to look up and imagine what’s possible. This is what the future of space looks like — bold, inclusive, and driven by purpose.”
During their planned 14-day mission, the Ax-4 crew will live and work aboard the orbiting laboratory conducting around 60 different research activities representing 31 countries. The studies will contribute to human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences, showcasing each country’s space research initiatives. This mission will enable opportunities for industrial advancements and technological development to drive discovery off the planet.
Ax-4 is a stepping stone for Axiom Space’s broader vision: the development of Axiom Station, the world’s first commercial space station. By conducting research, testing operational protocols, and building international partnerships in low-Earth orbit, Ax-4 is helping lay the groundwork for a future where commercial platforms support sustained human presence in space.
Two hours in advance of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft docking with the International Space Station, at approximately 5:00 a.m. ET on Thursday, June 26, the Ax-4 live webcast will begin. Watch the crew arrive at the International Space Station live at axiom.space/live, spacex.com/launches, and on NASA+. The Ax-4 webcast will cover the vehicle’s approach and docking through crew arrival on the space station, where they will be greeted by NASA’s Expedition Crew during a welcome ceremony. This will begin the crew’s mission on the orbiting laboratory conducting microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements.
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Peggy Whitson
Ax-4 Commander
“This mission shows that space exploration is no longer limited to a few nations — it’s a shared effort that reflects the best of what we can achieve together. We launched a message to the world that science, exploration, and unity transcend borders. For me, returning to space is always a privilege. But leading this crew — representing the dreams and determination of India, Poland, and Hungary as they return to human spaceflight — that’s something truly special. We’re carrying the hopes of millions who dare to look up and imagine what’s possible. This is what the future of space looks like — bold, inclusive, and driven by purpose.”
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