Peggy Whitson's Triumphant Return as Axiom 4 Launches International Crew to ISS

Peggy Whitson, a seasoned astronaut, leads the Axiom 4 mission, marking the first visit by astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary to the International Space Station. The mission, in collaboration with Axiom Space and SpaceX, will conduct 14 days of microgravity research.

Peggy Whitson, a former NASA astronaut, embarked on her fifth spaceflight on Wednesday, leading an international team to the International Space Station. Crewmates from India, Poland, and Hungary are part of this historic mission, signifying their countries' inaugural visit to the ISS.

The mission, a venture of Axiom Space in partnership with SpaceX, launched from Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral at 2:30 a.m. EDT. The crew is traveling aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule, which was lifted by a Falcon 9 rocket.

After 28 hours in flight, the Crew Dragon is anticipated to dock with the ISS, where current occupants will welcome the Axiom 4 crew. This mission marks a milestone for Axiom Space as it expands its role in commercial space travel. The mission also holds significance for India, paving the way for future manned missions.

(With inputs from agencies.)