BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — SpaceX is preparing to launch its second private astronaut mission to the International Space Station.

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The 10-day mission for Axiom Space is set to launch no earlier than May 8. The four-person crew will complete more than 20 research experiments, and Axiom will continue to refine its procedures as the company works toward building its own station.

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“The Ax-2 mission represents the continued progress that NASA and (the) industry is making to build a robust commercial economy and low-Earth orbit,” said Angela Hart, NASA Commercial Low-Earth Orbit Development Program Manager.

Among the crew is the first Saudi woman to take part in a mission to the International Space Station, who will serve as a specialist for the Ax-2 mission.

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Axiom Space has big plans in low-Earth orbit. The company is building its own commercial space station. The first module will fly in 2025.

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Video: SpaceX set for early morning rocket launch Friday from Florida’s Space Coast Anyone planning to stay up late until early Friday may be able to see a rocket launch from Florida’s Space Coast. (WFTV)

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