University of Porto partners with Axiom Space in global space research initiative
Collaboration focuses on architecture, design and human habitation beyond Earth
University of Porto has formalised a partnership with Axiom Space, one of the world’s leading commercial space companies, marking a new step in the university’s involvement in space-related research and education.
The collaboration, established through the Faculty of Architecture of the University of Porto (FAUP) and the Faculty of Fine Arts of the University of Porto (FBAUP), is the first initiative of its kind in Portugal dedicated to the intersection of architecture, design and space exploration.
The partnership was formally marked by a visit from Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and Vice President of Human Spaceflight, alongside Emiliano Ventura, Project Astronaut and human performance specialist at Axiom Space. Their visit brought together researchers, faculty members and institutional representatives to discuss topics including human habitation in extreme environments and the future of long-duration space missions.
The collaboration emerged through Axiom Space’s Project Astronaut programme and has led to the University of Porto joining the Axiom Space Global University Alliance, creating new opportunities for interdisciplinary research and international cooperation.
Founded in 2016, Axiom Space is a major player in the new space economy, operating private astronaut missions to the International Space Station and developing the world’s first commercial space station. The company is also responsible for developing the next-generation spacesuits for NASA’s Artemis programme, which aims to return humans to the Moon.
By connecting architecture, design, science and technology with the challenges of human space exploration, the partnership strengthens Porto’s position as a centre for advanced research and innovation, while opening new avenues for international collaboration in this field.
