On Sunday, two Saudi Arabian astronauts and two other paying customers returned to Earth, completing a SpaceX mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This marks the second all-private mission to the ISS led by Houston-based company, Axiom Space. The AX-2 mission, which launched on May 21, included stem cell researcher Rayyanah Barnawi, the first Saudi woman to reach space, and fighter pilot Ali Al-Qarni, the other Saudi astronaut. Businessman John Shoffner funded his own trip and travelled as a passenger. Retired NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson commanded the mission and accompanied the ticket-holders. Whitson made history as the first woman to lead a private space mission.
During the eight-day mission, the astronauts and the Expedition 69 crew completed more than 20 scientific experiments aboard the ISS. These experiments included science, technology, engineering, art, and math outreach events to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. In addition, they practiced station operations such as preparing food and drinks, safety procedures, and operating lab equipment.
The Saudi Space Authority partnered with NASA for a week-long mission to the ISS in April 2019. During that time, the two Saudi Arabian astronauts, Sultan Al-Nuadi and Fahad Al-Harbi, conducted 14 scientific experiments and completed three education outreach microgravity experiments involving 12,000 students from across Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia is hoping to transition from an oil-based to a knowledge-based economy focusing on science and technology. Its national space policy aims to develop its capabilities in space. This policy seems to be working, with the AX-2 mission marking a milestone in space exploration as the first Saudi woman to travel to space and inspiring a new generation of Saudi scientists.
The success of private astronaut missions could also lead to a future beyond the retirement of the ISS in late 2030, with plans to create a privately owned space station. This is supported by NASA to facilitate private sector participation closer to home so they can invest in deep-space exploration.
As the private space industry continues to grow, the AX-2 mission signifies a significant step towards routine and accessible private missions in low-Earth orbit, with the possibility of further advancements and opportunities in the future.
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