Poland has another space hero! Sławomir Uznański-Wiśniewski has just joined the crew of the International Space Station. The AX-4 mission was successful – Dragon capsule docked on ISS.
14:35 26.06.2025 Click Here
Historical moment for Poland and the world
Sławomir Uznański-Wiśniewski is not only an engineer, but also a symbol of Polish space ambitions. 47 years after Mirosław Hermaszewski's flight, he became the second Pole in space. The AX-4 mission took off on 25 June at 8:31 a.m. Polish time from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. On Wednesday, the Dragon capsule was in orbit, and on Thursday, June 26, docked to the ISS.
This is not only an individual success, but also a big step for Polish science and technology. Uznański-Wiśniewski represents all Poland, and his presence on the station is intended to inspire future generations of space engineers and enthusiasts56.
What did docking for ISS look like?
The docking procedure for the International Space Station is a real technological performance. The Dragon pod is approaching the ISS through special checkpoints. First it is located about 400 meters from the station, then it stops at 200 meters, where all parameters are checked. The final approach is only 1 cm per second, and after the "soft catch" is "hard catch" – the moor ring activates the hooks and seal the connection.
Once the pressure is equalized, hatches are opened and the crew can board the ISS. The whole process is autonomous, but the astronauts are ready to take control in case of problems.
What awaits Sławomiz Uznański on the ISS?
During his two-week stay at the station Sławomi Uznański-Wiśniewski will conduct 13 experiments prepared by Polish companies and institutions. Research will focus on new technologies under microgravity conditions. Additionally, the astronaut will engage in educational activities – he will hold 30 popular science shows and connect with Polish shortwaves.
It is also an opportunity to promote Polish technical and scientific thought internationally. The IGNIS mission, which is part of it, is a result of cooperation between Poland and the European Space Agency and Axis Space and SpaceX companies.
Video and Docking Transmissions
The moment of docking the Dragon capsule to the ISS can be viewed on the official NASA, SpaceX and Axiom Space and ISS channels. There are also video footage from the station itself, including on X (formerly Twitter).
