Axiom Space and the European Space Agency (ESA) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to explore collaborative opportunities in human spaceflight, science, technology, and commercialisation.
Commenting on the deal, Michael Suffredini, CEO of Axiom Space, said: “This MOU signifies a new era in international space collaboration. Together with ESA, we aim to enhance our collective capabilities in human spaceflight, fostering scientific innovation and expanding access to space. Together, we are building a future where European astronauts regularly embark on Axiom Space missions, further developing our pioneering space communities.”
Josef Aschbacher, European Space Agency’s Director General, remarked: “Our collaboration with Axiom Space represents a step forward in Europe’s endeavours in space. The combination of Axiom Space’s innovative approach to spaceflight and ESA’s rich history and experience will create new opportunities not only for scientific and technology advancements, but also for nurturing a sustainable commercial space ecosystem.”
Both organisations have expressed the intent to foster science and technology development, potentially collaborating on Axiom Space missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and post-ISS low-Earth orbit activities.
Axiom Space is set to support ESA’s goals for institutional astronaut missions and may also assist with nationally sponsored missions for ESA Member States.
Under this agreement, collaboration opportunities arise around the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) spacesuits, with possibilities for European companies to participate in various stages including training, operation, and maintenance.
The partnership seeks to further research projects on upcoming missions, leveraging European advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, health, and life sciences.
The MoU opens doors for European missions to access the world’s first commercial space station, Axiom Station, by the end of the decade, encouraging ongoing human spaceflight opportunities, research, commercial business development to include future European cargo and crew service providers, and more.
The MoU is effective immediately and will span an initial period of three years, with options for extension based on mutual agreement.
Both organisations anticipate that this partnership will not only propel advancements in space exploration and discovery, but also foster a spirit of international cooperation and innovation within the global space community.
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