SpaceX capsule returns four astronauts after 20 days in orbit
A crewed capsule successfully re-entered Earth’s atmosphere early Tuesday, marking the conclusion of the Ax-4 private space mission. The splashdown occurred in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego around 2:31 a.m. PT, accompanied by a sonic boom that echoed across parts of Southern California.
International collaboration and record-setting achievements
The Ax-4 mission launched on June 25 from Florida’s Kennedy Space Center. During its 18-day stay docked at the International Space Station (ISS), the four-person crew conducted around 60 scientific experiments and research projects—reportedly the highest number of science-related activities completed on a private mission by the organizing space company.
The crew included mission commander Peggy Whitson, who extended her U.S. record for cumulative time in space to 695 days. Whitson, now the company’s director of human spaceflight, has made five trips to space. Joining her were astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary, all making their countries’ first extended stays aboard the ISS. It marked the first time in over four decades that these nations sent national astronauts into space.
Technological milestones and next steps
The capsule used for this mission, named Grace, was the newest crew vehicle developed by SpaceX and completed its inaugural flight. This marked SpaceX’s 18th human spaceflight. The company is now preparing for its next mission, Crew-11, which is scheduled to launch in the coming weeks in partnership with the U.S. space agency for a long-term stay on the ISS.
The Ax-4 mission’s successful completion highlights the expanding role of private enterprise in space exploration and international scientific cooperation in orbit.
