SpaceX Axiom-4 Crew with India, Poland, Hungary Docks International Space Station

Astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary have arrived at the International Space Station aboard the privately funded Axiom Space Ax-4 mission, flying on a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft named Grace. Commanded by veteran NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, this mission marks the first time in over 40 years that these countries have sent astronauts to space, with all three newcomers making their inaugural visits. The crew launched from Kennedy Space Center and docked with the station, which now represents 26 countries having visited since 2000, highlighting growing international cooperation in space exploration. The mission not only includes scientific experiments but also cultural elements, with the crew bringing food that celebrates their respective heritages. This private mission, costing over $65 million per seat, was arranged by Houston-based Axiom Space and underscores the increasing role of commercial companies in space travel. The arrival was warmly welcomed by the existing station crew and mission control, emphasizing the spirit of peaceful international collaboration.