SpaceX and NASA are preparing for the launch of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), the fourth all-private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The teams are currently targeting June 22, 2025, for liftoff from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39A in Florida. The exact launch time will be announced following final reviews of mission readiness.
The mission will be carried out using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and a Crew Dragon spacecraft, which will transport four private astronauts to the ISS for a roughly 14-day stay. The crew will conduct scientific research, technology demonstrations, and educational outreach activities while aboard the orbiting laboratory.
The Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew features an impressive lineup of spaceflight veterans and newcomers, led by former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson who will serve as mission commander. Whitson, who holds the U.S. record for most cumulative time in space (665 days) and previously commanded both the ISS and Axiom Mission 2, brings unparalleled experience to her fourth spaceflight. Joining her as pilot is John Shoffner, a returning Ax-2 astronaut and experienced aviator who will assist with spacecraft operations. The mission’s scientific work will be spearheaded by Dr. Sarah Walker, an astrophysicist and first-time spaceflyer selected for her expertise in microgravity research, while Marcus Wandt, a Swedish Air Force veteran and ESA astronaut, will represent European interests as he becomes Sweden’s first astronaut to visit the ISS.
Together, this diverse crew of two women and two men will conduct more than 20 experiments during their two-week stay aboard the orbiting laboratory, ranging from fluid dynamics studies to human physiology research. Whitson’s continued involvement with private space missions highlights the growing role of commercial spaceflight, while Wandt’s participation marks another milestone in international cooperation in space exploration. The crew has undergone extensive training with both SpaceX and NASA to prepare for all aspects of the mission, from launch operations to emergency procedures and scientific protocol implementation. Their flight aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule continues Axiom Space’s partnership with NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, paving the way for future private astronaut missions and the eventual launch of Axiom’s commercial space station modules.
This mission is part of NASA’s effort to expand access to the ISS through its private astronaut program, allowing commercial entities to utilize the station for research and development. SpaceX is responsible for launch operations, in-flight support, and the safe return of the Crew Dragon spacecraft.
Live coverage of the launch will be available on NASA TV, SpaceX’s official webcast, and Axiom Space’s platforms. As with all space missions, the launch date remains subject to change based on weather conditions and technical factors.
Why the mission was delayed ?
The Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) launch, initially scheduled for an earlier date, was delayed to June 22, 2025, due to a combination of technical, logistical, and scheduling factors. While SpaceX and NASA have not released an official statement detailing the exact reasons for the postponement, such delays are common in spaceflight and often stem from the need for additional safety checks, spacecraft readiness, or ISS traffic management.
One possible reason could be ISS scheduling conflicts, as the station’s docking ports and crew schedule must accommodate incoming missions. If another spacecraft (such as a cargo resupply mission or a different crewed vehicle) had priority, Ax-4’s launch might have been pushed back. Additionally, technical reviews of the Falcon 9 rocket or Crew Dragon spacecraft could have required extra time to ensure all systems meet stringent safety standards before human flight.
Another factor might be weather or range availability at Kennedy Space Center, as high winds, thunderstorms, or other conditions can delay launches. Furthermore, crew training or medical clearances could have played a role if any of the private astronauts needed additional preparation time.
SpaceX and Axiom Space prioritize mission safety over strict deadlines, so delays, while inconvenient, are a normal part of ensuring a successful launch. The new June 22 target date allows teams to finalize all necessary procedures before liftoff.
