On May 21, history was yet again made, as Axiom Space, the pioneering private spaceflight company, launched its second private astronaut mission. The Crew Dragon spacecraft, christened 'Freedom', took off from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39A, borne skywards by a SpaceX Falcon 9. Aboard this spacecraft was the four-person Ax-2 crew, ready to experience the inimitable realm of space.

Freedom's departure marks a new era in space travel and exploration. As the second private astronaut mission executed by Axiom Space, the event illustrates the escalating trend towards commercial spaceflight, democratizing access to the stars. Lifting off at 5:37 p.m. Eastern, the spacecraft and its trailblazing crew separated from the rocket’s upper stage a mere 12 minutes after liftoff.