This is an exciting time for human spaceflight, and it is exciting for us to be supporting Axiom Space as they push the boundaries of commercial human spaceflight in LEO and as the developer of next-generation spacesuits for Artemis Moon missions.
Dr Peter Hodkinson, Director of the Spacesuit Physiology Laboratory at King’s
02 June 2026
King's College London joins Axiom Space University Alliance
King’s College London has joined the Axiom Space University Alliance, an international research community dedicated to advancing microgravity research, technology development and commercial innovation in low-Earth orbit (LEO).
The Alliance brings together 26 leading universities and research institutions spanning four continents and 12 countries.
King’s membership in the Alliance follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) last year with the human space exploration company Axiom Space.
The MoU between King’s and Axiom Space established a framework for potential collaboration across shared areas of interest within the King’s Spacesuit Physiology Laboratory. These include human health and performance in space, pressure and atmospheric environments, movement in suited and unsuited conditions, and human systems integration and human–robot co-working.
The MoU provides an ongoing platform for future collaboration and scientific exchange, supporting King’s long-term ambition to contribute to space health and exploration research.
“It was great to catch up with Dr Rahul Goel (Global Head, Space Health, Axiom Space) at the recent Aerospace Medical Association conference and discuss the opportunities this alliance opens up in coming years,” said Dr Hodkinson.
Through the University Alliance, Axiom Space will use its experience in supporting scientific research missions to the International Space Station and its broader plans for next-generation commercial orbital platforms. The Alliance will also facilitate international working groups to identify research priorities, share expertise, and develop recommendations for the future of microgravity research and innovation.
Collectively, the Alliance aligns with key priorities within NASA’s LEO Microgravity Strategy (December 2024), including advancing crew health and performance systems for long-duration missions, supporting autonomous and robotic systems, enabling in-orbit scientific analysis, and strengthening international collaboration in LEO research.
By participating in the Alliance, King’s will contribute to global discussions shaping the future of space research, while helping to define opportunities for academic–industry collaboration in commercial space environments.
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Director of the Spacesuit Physiology Laboratory