The Axiom-4 crew has officially begun their mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), supported by the experienced Expedition 73 team. Following their arrival and docking, the crew — comprising Peggy Whitson, Shubhanshu Shukla (Shux), Slawosz Uznanski, and Tibor Kapu — began settling into life in microgravity. Each member was assigned a sleeping station, with Shukla resting in the SpaceX Dragon capsule, Whitson in the Airlock, Uznanski in Columbus, and Kapu in the Japanese Experiment Module.
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Initial Tasks and Microgravity Adaptation
Upon arrival, the Axiom-4 astronauts focused on unpacking cargo from Dragon and reviewing safety and emergency procedures alongside the station’s long-term residents. This included familiarization with key station systems, emergency gear, and communication protocols with ground control. They also completed handover activities to seamlessly integrate into ISS operations.
Collaboration and Scientific Work
By Friday, the crew had already begun transferring essential scientific hardware and portable freezers into the station’s incubators and cold storage units, paving the way for upcoming research experiments. Expedition 73, while continuing its regular schedule — including exercise studies, eye health monitoring, and lunar surface photography — offered support during this transition phase.
Team Spirit and First Impressions
NASA flight engineer Anne McClain played a key role in helping the new crew adjust, particularly with equipment transfers and orientation. In a touching moment, Peggy Whitson shared an image of Earth from orbit, remarking, “I’ve missed this view.” As both crews now work side by side, they are preparing not only for new experiments but also for the eventual departure of a cargo spacecraft.
The Axiom-4 mission marks another step in expanding commercial spaceflight and international cooperation aboard the ISS.
