Axiom Space has accelerated its plans for its commercial space station, aiming to start operations as early as 2028, two years ahead of the original 2030 target.

The company revised its launch sequence, now planning to send the Payload, Power, and Thermal module to the ISS first, which will later detach to become a free-flying platform.

This new timeline allows Axiom Space to begin independent operations sooner and helps accommodate NASA’s plans for the ISS’s deorbit vehicle, Space.com has reported.

The updated sequence also aligns with NASA’s requirements and will facilitate a smooth transition to a commercial space station after the ISS retires.

Written by B.C. Begley