Axiom Space has revised its commercial space station assembly sequence to address NASA’s needs for deorbiting the International Space Station (ISS). The company will now start deploying modules, starting with a Payload Power Thermal Module (PPTM), and berthing it at one of two ports used by cargo spacecraft. This change allows Axiom to get to a free-flying station sooner while also accommodating NASA’s requirements.
The revised sequence involves launching the first habitat module, Hab1, which will then be docked with the PPTM after departing from the ISS. This configuration enables a free-flying station with just two modules, supporting four crew members, potentially as early as 2028.
Thales Alenia Space Italia (TASI) is producing the modules for Axiom, with the PPTM expected to be delivered in 2025. The company has started working on the PPTM using components originally manufactured for the habitat modules.
The revised sequence does not change the overall cost of Axiom Station, but it benefits cash flow needs. Axiom plans to continue sending private astronaut missions (PAMs) to the ISS despite the revision, which will compete with limited opportunities offered by NASA.
Source: https://spacenews.com/axiom-space-revises-space-station-assembly-plans