The astronauts of Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) did a quick check-in from the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft during their journey to the International Space Station (ISS), shortly after launching from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crew shared their first experiences of being in space.
During the check-in, Ax-3 Commander Michael López-Alegría confirmed the crew's well-being and safety as they navigate the interim period between launch and docking with the ISS.
Collaborative efforts between Axiom Space, SpaceX, and NASA ground personnel are in full swing, as teams meticulously coordinate and ensure a viable interception of the space station. As Dragon moves through space, the spacecraft will autonomously navigate a careful and calculated rendezvous with the ISS. The Dragon spacecraft is now anticipated to dock to the space-facing port of the ISS Harmony module as early as 4:19 a.m. ET on Jan. 20.
In advance of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft docking with the ISS, at 2:30 a.m. ET, the Ax-3 live webcast will begin. Watch the crew arrive at the ISS live at axiomspace.com, NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency’s website. The Ax-3 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 an arrival ceremony. This will begin the crew’s mission on the orbiting laboratory conducting microgravity research, technology demonstrations, and outreach engagements.
Follow along for mission updates with #Ax3 on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook, and on our website.