Axiom Space Welcomes British Astronaut Tim Peake to its Astronaut Corps

Peake to serve as strategic advisor for all-UK human spaceflight mission

Renowned British astronaut Tim Peake joins Axiom Space's astronaut team as a strategic advisor, with the specific task of supporting the development of and strategy behind a potential all-UK human spaceflight mission with the Houston-based company.

Peake, a celebrated figure in the space community, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new advisory role. He will support the team's strategy to confirm and secure funding for this one-nation space exploration effort. The proposed mission aims to be a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind venture, showcasing the viability of a commercially sponsored pathway to space for the UK.

"We are thrilled to welcome Tim Peake to Axiom Space," said Michael Lopéz-Alegría, Axiom Space Chief Astronaut. "His vision and guidance will be invaluable as we work to make this all-UK mission a reality. Partnering with the UK Space Agency on this historic endeavor underscores our collective commitment to redefining access to space, unlocking low-Earth orbit's true potential for nations and industries around the world."

In October 2023, Axiom Space and the UK Space Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore the feasibility of a UK-crewed commercial mission. This collaborative effort is designed to be funded through private sponsorships from UK-based companies. And in February, the UK Space Agency announced up to £15 million could be made available for British science and technology to fly to space, should the proposed UK mission progress as planned.

"I am excited to join Axiom Space and contribute to this pioneering effort," said Peake. "An all-UK mission represents a significant opportunity for our country to establish a strong presence as well as a leadership role in the commercial space sector. I look forward to working with Axiom Space and the UK Space Agency to advance this exciting possibility."

About Tim Peake
Tim Peake is a former European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut and the first British ESA astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS). With a distinguished career in space exploration, Peake is a prominent figure in the global space community and an advocate for STEM education and international collaboration in space.