From Ax-3 to Ax-5: a further step toward the post ISS

As the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the International Space Station, Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) redefined the pathway to low-Earth orbit (LEO) for nations around the globe in early 2024. It marked a new era of opportunity to access LEO, advancing exploration and research in microgravity. The scientific experiments and demonstrations conducted during the 18-day mission (spanning 346 orbits) had an impact in understanding human physiology, progressing scientific knowledge, harnessing opportunities for industrial advancements, and developing new technologies. Commercial, policy and academic partnerships were at the core of that mission. The Emilia Romagna Region has been part of that journey from the very beginning, serving as the first regional administration to support and co-fund micro gravity experiments conducted by local entities. After the introduction from Axiom representative and the hands-on experience from Italian AX-3 crew member Colonel Walter Villadei, beneficiaries of the regional program will present their projects and key outcomes. The journey, however, has just begun. With the Ax-5 mission planned for the second half of 2027, we look forward to even stronger collaboration with the Italian ecosystem and the Italian Space Agency. The post-ISS (International Space Station) era is on the rise, microgravity has never been more accessible thanks to private operators and new incumbents, with Axiom at the forefront of such upcoming next revolution.

Programme

Axiom *
Col. Walter Villadei, Astronaut, Italian Air Force
Alessio Grasso, Aerospace & Defense Business Unit, Dallara Automobiles
Danilo Petroni, Head, Group Grants Office, GVM Care & Research *
Valentina Benfenati, Director of Research, CNR-ISOF *

* Speaker participation subject to confirmation