SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule, 'Grace,' successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS) on June 25, 2025. This marks a significant milestone in private space exploration, carrying the Ax-4 mission crew.
The mission was led by retired NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, who holds the record for the most days spent in space by an American. Joining her were Shubhanshu Shukla from India, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski from Poland, and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. The crew launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on June 24, 2025, initiating a 28-hour automated rendezvous.
The docking occurred approximately 260 miles above the mid-Atlantic Ocean, with hatches opening to welcome the crew. The Ax-4 mission, facilitated by Axiom Space, aims to conduct scientific research and technology demonstrations. This mission highlights the increasing role of private companies in human spaceflight and international collaboration.