HOUSTON, Dec. 18, 2024 – Axiom Space announced today an ambitious revision to its assembly plan for Axiom Station, enabling the world’s first free-flying commercial space station to operate as an independent orbital platform as early as 2028—two years ahead of schedule.
The accelerated timeline is the result of a revised sequence in which Axiom Station modules will be attached to the International Space Station (ISS), allowing for earlier detachment and autonomous operation. The change also aligns with NASA’s requirements for preparing the ISS for its eventual decommissioning by the end of the decade.
“We were ready to answer the call when NASA asked us to relook at our space station development plan,” said Mark Greeley, Axiom Space Chief Operating Officer and Axiom Station Program Manager. “Our ongoing assessment of the assembly sequence revealed opportunities for flexibility and enhancements. With the International Space Station needing to protect for the ability to accommodate a deorbit vehicle on station, we were able to accelerate this work to support the program’s requirements.”
The updated assembly sequence will begin with the launch and integration of the Payload Power Thermal Module (AxPPTM) instead of the previously planned Habitat 1 (AxH1) module. The AxPPTM will be followed by AxH1, an airlock, Habitat 2 (AxH2), and the Research and Manufacturing Facility (AxRMF). This adjustment enables Axiom Station to achieve free-flight capability immediately after the AxPPTM is launched and berthed, providing a platform to add subsequent modules in orbit after separating from the ISS.
“Our goal is to ensure a smooth transition from a government-operated platform to a commercial one, maintaining continuous human presence in orbit to serve a community of global customers and partners, including NASA,” Greeley added. “This revised approach not only aligns with U.S. objectives but also delivers immediate value for our customers and investors.”
Collaboration Is The Key to Success
The AxPPTM’s primary structure will be constructed by Thales Alenia Space in Turin, Italy, with subsequent integration of internal systems taking place at Axiom Space’s Houston facilities. The module is scheduled for delivery no earlier than fall 2025.
Walter Cugno, Vice President for Exploration and Science at Thales Alenia Space, emphasized the importance of this partnership: “We thank Axiom Space for the trust in our company, commending to Thales Alenia Space an additional module to the ones currently under development for Axiom Station. We proudly welcome the challenge to further increase our effort by providing a new pressurized module in addition to AxH1 and AxH2.”
To expedite the project, Thales Alenia Space will use structural elements from AxH1 and AxH2 for the AxPPTM. This approach leverages ongoing module construction, with AxH1 prioritized to rendezvous with the AxPPTM once the station separates from the ISS.
Tejpaul Bhatia, Axiom Space Chief Revenue Officer, highlighted the significance of international partnerships: “Working with leading experts like Thales Alenia, who have a proven record in module development and a strong relationship with NASA, is integral to our operations and vision. By engaging and integrating with a network of partners from around the world, we access cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions that enhance our capabilities and supply chain.”
The Path to a Commercial Space Future
Axiom Space’s contract with NASA, awarded in 2020, marked the beginning of its ambitious journey to develop a privately funded commercial space station. The initiative is part of NASA’s strategy to commercialize low-Earth orbit (LEO) and retire the ISS by the 2030s. The revised assembly sequence for Axiom Station strengthens this vision, ensuring a smooth transition from government-led to private-sector operations.
NASA’s collaboration on the revised plan has been critical, according to Greeley. “NASA has been extremely collaborative and supportive of the new plan as it addresses its deorbit operational concerns and preserves critical capabilities currently utilized on the International Space Station,” he said.
The Axiom Station will serve a diverse customer base that includes governments, private companies, and research institutions from around the world. This global approach underscores Axiom Space’s belief that space exploration is a collective endeavor for the benefit of humanity.
With the accelerated timeline, Axiom Station is poised to become a cornerstone of future commercial space activity, paving the way for continued innovation and collaboration in low-Earth orbit and beyond.
