The UK Space Agency has signed an agreement with Axiom Space to pave the way for a commercially sponsored astronaut mission.
According to a 25 October press release, “UK astronauts” (suggesting more than one astronaut) would spend two weeks in orbit carrying out scientific research, demonstrating new technologies, and participating in educational outreach activities.
“The prospect of a historic UK mission with Axiom Space has the potential to inspire a whole new generation to reach for the stars while supporting our efforts to build one of the most innovative and attractive space economies in the world, so I look forward to seeing the next stage of this exploratory work develop,” explained minister of state at the department of science innovation and technology George Freeman.
The UK is the fourth European country to sign an agreement with Axiom for a commercially sponsored astronaut mission.
In July 2022, Hungary signed an agreement with Axiom as part of its Hungarian to Orbit programme. It aims to send a yet-to-be-selected Hungarian astronaut to space by the end of 2024.
Sweden was the next to secure an agreement with Axiom with the country, along with ESA, signing a contract in April 2023. Swedish ESA astronaut reserve Marcus Wandt has already been selected to fly aboard the four-person Ax-3 mission, which is currently targeted for a January 2024 liftoff.
In August, Poland, along with ESA, signed an agreement with Axiom for its commercially sponsored astronaut mission. It’s currently unclear when this mission will be launched, but it will carry Polish ESA astronaut reserve Sławosz Uznański.
With a clear growing desire to send its citizens to space, it may never be a better time for Europe to follow through with the development of its own sovereign crew launch capability.
