Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
Axiom Space is accelerating plans to detach from the ISS by 2028, creating the world’s first commercial space station—marking a major shift in human spaceflight.
Credit: Axiomspace
Axiom Station was originally set to build onto the ISS, but a new timeline will send key modules straight into free flight, speeding up independent space operations.
Credit: Axiomspace
With the ISS retiring by 2030, NASA is banking on Axiom and other private stations to ensure continuous microgravity research and maintain a U.S. presence in space.
Credit: Axiomspace
Instead of starting with a habitat module, Axiom will now first launch power and thermal systems, allowing it to separate from the ISS faster than originally planned.
Credit: Axiomspace
Axiom’s free-flying station will host scientific research, space tourism, and manufacturing, setting the stage for a future where space isn’t just for governments.
The ISS has provided 25 years of groundbreaking science, but with its retirement looming, NASA is shifting to a private sector-led orbital economy.
NASA and Axiom’s updated assembly sequence ensures that low Earth orbit operations continue seamlessly, preventing any research gaps after the ISS shuts down.
Axiom Station is part of NASA’s broader vision, supporting multiple private space stations—paving the way for a commercial space economy beyond the ISS.
Credit: Axiomspace
With Axiom Station leading the charge, private companies are stepping up to take over low Earth orbit, while NASA focuses on Moon and Mars missions.