Saudi Astronauts Embark on Axiom Mission 2, Marking Historic Achievements

 Saudi astronauts Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Alqarni have embarked on an extraordinary journey as they blast off in a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, commencing the Axiom Mission 2 to the International Space Station (ISS).

A trailblazer in her own right, Barnawi becomes the first Arab woman to reach orbit. Her educational background includes a BA in biomedical sciences from the University of Otago, New Zealand, and a master's degree in biomedical sciences from Alfaisal University. With over nine years of experience in stem cell and tissue re-engineering as a research laboratory specialist, Barnawi expresses her enthusiasm for making historic achievements for her country and humanity.

Joining her on this groundbreaking mission is Alqarni, a graduate of King Faisal Air Academy with a BA in aeronautical science. He further obtained a diploma in aeronautical science from Vance Air Force Base in the US. As a captain in the Royal Saudi Air Force, Alqarni brings more than 12 years of experience as a jet pilot to the team. Excitement and pride fill him as he embarks on his first-ever journey to the International Space Station.

During their 8-day stay on the ISS, the Saudi astronauts are scheduled to conduct 14 experiments. Eleven of these experiments focus on microgravity and its effects on the brain and eyes. Additionally, three educational awareness experiments will involve the participation of 12,000 students from across the Kingdom, fostering scientific curiosity and interest.

Commander Peggy Whitson and pilot John Shoffner from the United States accompany Barnawi and Alqarni on the ISS, forming a collaborative and diverse team.

Prior to their launch, the Saudi astronauts underwent extensive training for nine months at prestigious institutions including Axiom Space, SpaceX, NASA Johnson Center, SpaceX headquarters in Hawthorne, California, the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency, and the European Space Agency. In simulated space conditions, they spent 12 days mastering weightlessness, communication skills in orbit, expeditionary skills, and understanding the potential side effects of spaceflight.

The Axiom Mission 2 represents a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia, as it opens doors to unprecedented achievements in space exploration. Barnawi, Alqarni, and their team embody the spirit of discovery and inspire future generations to dream big and reach for the stars.