As the countdown to the retirement of the International Space Station (ISS) continues, the global space community is actively exploring alternatives to sustain human presence in low Earth orbit. Axiom Space, a Houston-based private company, has emerged as a frontrunner in this endeavor, aiming to establish the world’s first commercial space station before the ISS is decommissioned in 2031.

The ISS, which has served as a critical outpost for scientific research and international collaboration in space since its inception, is set to be retired after 25 years of continuous operation. As discussions about its future intensify, Axiom Space is positioning itself as a key player in the development of next-generation space infrastructure.

Axiom Space is not only engaged in building its own space station but is also training astronauts from India for a mission to the ISS scheduled for 2025. This initiative highlights the company’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and expanding the scope of human spaceflight.

Pearly Pandya, the Director of International Government Business at Axiom Space, expressed optimism about the potential collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). In an exclusive interview, Pandya, who has Indian roots and was born in Ahmedabad, emphasized the importance of integrating Indian rocket technology into future missions. She stated, “We hope to see Indian rockets utilized in our operations, and we are eager to establish a long-term partnership with India in the realm of space exploration.”

Axiom Space’s ambitious plans include the construction of the Axiom Station, which is designed to serve as a commercial platform for scientific research, manufacturing, and tourism in space. The company has already made significant progress, having completed preliminary and critical design reviews in collaboration with NASA. Currently, their partners at Thales Alenia Space are engaged in the welding and machining of the primary structures for the station’s first module.

The first components of the flight hardware are being assembled, with plans for the completed module to arrive in Houston for final assembly and integration. Axiom Space is targeting a 2026 launch for this pioneering segment of its space station, which will operate in low-Earth orbit.

In addition to its focus on the Axiom Station, the company is also developing next-generation spacesuits designed for use in low-Earth orbit, lunar missions, and beyond. This comprehensive approach aims to establish a sustainable human presence in space, paving the way for future exploration and commercial opportunities.

The transition from the ISS to Axiom Station represents a significant shift in how humanity approaches space. With an increasing number of private enterprises entering the field, the competition to create viable space stations is heating up. Axiom Space’s leadership in this area is indicative of a broader trend towards privatization and commercialization of space exploration.

As the space industry evolves, the role of international collaboration becomes increasingly vital. The potential involvement of ISRO in Axiom’s projects underscores the importance of leveraging global expertise and technology to advance human spaceflight capabilities.

The future of space exploration is bright, with Axiom Space at the helm of a new era in commercial space travel. As they work towards launching the Axiom Station, the company is not only preparing for the next chapter of human presence in space but is also setting the stage for a collaborative approach that includes nations like India.

With the ISS approaching its end of service, the urgency to develop alternative platforms for space research and habitation has never been greater. Axiom Space’s commitment to innovation and collaboration could very well lead to a new frontier in human space exploration, one that includes contributions from around the globe.

As we look ahead, the space community watches closely to see how partnerships will unfold and what new technologies will emerge in the quest to sustain life beyond our planet.