Hungarian researcher-astronaut Tibor Kapu is expected to launch aboard the Axiom-4 space mission no earlier than 10 June, at 8:22am local time (2:22pm CET) from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission will take him and three crewmates to the International Space Station (ISS) for a 14-day research mission.
During a Tuesday online press conference held with the entire crew, Kapu expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to represent Hungary in space. ‘It’s an incredible honour to carry the hopes and pride of the Hungarian people into orbit,’ he said. He asked his fellow citizens to pause and celebrate together when the launch day arrives, as this journey is, in his words, ‘powered by your dreams, wishes, and efforts.’
Kapu emphasized that this mission is not just a step forward in science and exploration for Hungary, but also a leap in national pride and inspiration, proving that ‘dreams and dedication know no boundaries.’ He will carry out 25 experiments designed by Hungarian scientists, showcasing local innovation on a global platform.
His training took place across institutions like NASA, SpaceX, Axiom Space, the European Space Agency (ESA) in Germany, and JAXA in Japan. Kapu humorously noted that he had not expected so much of the preparation to involve water-based activities: escaping from flooded helicopters, kayaking in Mexican waters, and plunging into icy waters off Florida. These experiences, he said, taught him to remain calm and collected under pressure. The intense training also forged strong bonds within the team, fostering unity, confidence, and camaraderie.
Looking ahead, Kapu reflected on the wonder of what awaits: ‘We’ll witness sunrises over Earth, and yes, there’ll be awkward moments too—like not knowing which way is up,’ he joked.
At the event, the crew introduced their zero-gravity indicator, a small plush swan named Joy. For Kapu, it represents a key lesson: ‘A healthy team finds joy in what they do.’ He believes that happiness is a sign of trust, adaptability, and friendship—vital traits in space. ‘The swans fly gracefully over Lake Balaton at home,’ Kapu said. ‘Now this one is flying a bit higher.’
He shared that despite the exhausting training, he feels good—helped by the presence of his family nearby in Florida. He also revealed that Bertalan Farkas, Hungary’s first astronaut, has offered him advice throughout his preparation and will attend the launch.
‘The swans fly gracefully over Lake Balaton at home,’ Kapu said. ‘Now this one is flying a bit higher’
As personal mementoes, Kapu will bring a Rubik’s Cube, symbolizing Hungarian ingenuity, and the TV Maci (a beloved Hungarian cartoon teddy bear), which also accompanied Farkas into space in 1980.
He’ll also carry some Hungarian culinary specialities: Stühmer’s newly developed space chocolate, as well as iconic spicy condiments Erős Pista and Piros Arany, to add some flavour to life aboard the ISS.
During the 14-day stay, the Axiom-4 crew will perform about 60 experiments from 31 countries, marking a significant international scientific collaboration.
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