Axiom Space launches Project Astronaut at IAC 2025: All you need to know - CNBC TV18

Axiom Space launches Project Astronaut at IAC 2025: All you need to know Ventura will lead a six-month pilot program testing a rigorous astronaut training protocol, focusing on human performance research and operational training. By CNBCTV18.com October 1, 2025, 3:29:08 PM IST (Published) 2 Min Read Axiom Space, a global leader in commercial human spaceflight and space infrastructure, which launched Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to ISS, has launched a new initiative called Project Astronaut. The pilot program was announced at the 2025 International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Sydney, Australia, selecting Portuguese physiologist Emiliano Ventura as its first-ever participant. Ventura will lead a six-month pilot program testing a rigorous astronaut training protocol, focusing on human performance research and operational training. The training includes reduced gravity, centrifuge, altitude chamber, expeditionary skills, and spacesuit operations training. The program combines research with operational training, setting new standards for commercial human spaceflight and advancing scientific knowledge. Ventura aims to study how the human body adapts to microgravity, contributing to space physiology research. “I am honoured to participate in Axiom Space’s first Project Astronaut initiative, combining my expertise in human performance with astronaut training. This program not only advances scientific research but also inspires the people of Portugal and the global community to engage with the future of space exploration. Together with Axiom Space’s unparalleled resources and flight heritage, we aim to set new standards in preparing astronauts for the challenges of commercial human spaceflight,” Emiliano said. The program's goal is to combine human performance research with operational training to help shape future astronaut training programs. With Axiom Space's support, the research will focus on pre-flight training's physical demands and the overall impact of the process. Michael Lopez-Alegria, Axiom Space Chief Astronaut, highlighted that Project Astronaut reflects the company's commitment to mission readiness and continuous improvement. Emiliano's expertise in human performance and experience with previous crewmembers make him ideal for the pilot program, Michael added. Axiom Space's experienced astronauts, including Peggy Whitson, Koichi Wakata, and Lopez-Alegria, will train alongside Emiliano, ensuring collaboration between classic space experience and modern research approaches. Axiom Space's Project Astronaut program solidifies its position as a leader in commercial spaceflight, offering opportunities for scientific research and astronaut training. This initiative enhances the company's reputation among governments, space agencies, and industry partners, showcasing its ability to support astronaut training, elevate international space programs and provide opportunities for individuals to pursue scientific goals both on and off Earth. Continue Reading (Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani) Tags astronautInternational Space Station ISSSpaceSpace mission