SpaceX successfully launched the Ax-4 mission on June 25, 2025, sending a private crew to the International Space Station (ISS). The launch, utilizing a Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket, took place from Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39A.
The Crew Dragon spacecraft, named "Grace," separated from the rocket approximately 10 minutes after liftoff. The Falcon 9's first stage successfully landed at Landing Zone 1 at Cape Canaveral.
The Ax-4 crew consists of Commander Peggy Whitson, Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla, Mission Specialist Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu. This mission marks a historic return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary.
The crew is scheduled to dock with the ISS and will conduct approximately 60 scientific experiments. These experiments include research from 31 countries, focusing on areas like diabetes, brain function in microgravity, and cancer growth.
The launch faced delays due to technical issues, including high winds and a liquid oxygen leak. NASA gave the go-ahead to proceed with the launch after addressing the concerns.
The Ax-4 mission is part of Axiom Space's ongoing efforts to expand private human spaceflight and international collaboration in space exploration. This mission highlights the growing role of private companies and international partnerships in advancing space exploration.