Axiom Ax-4 patch, 2025

ESA project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski's first flight into space, called Ignis, is Poland's first technological and scientific mission to the International Space Station. The name derives from the Latin word for ‘fire’ and symbolises the spark igniting a new era in Poland’s space endeavours. Sławosz will be the second Polish astronaut to fly in space, travelling on Ax-4, the fourth Axiom Space commercial mission to the Space Station.

The Ax-4 flight patch patch stands as an emblem of unity among four nations — the United States, India, Poland and Hungary — embarking on a shared journey into space. At its core, the patch embodies the ethos that space is for everyone. The central visual of Earth serves as a poignant reminder that our quest to explore is ultimately for the benefit of all humankind.

The design features four ascending lines, each representing one of the four countries on the mission, converging at the International Space Station. This imagery signifies the collaboration and unity among nations from the 'four corners of the Earth' to achieve a common goal. The patch is divided into three sections, symbolising the three continents that are building and rising together. These sections evoke the panes of the spacecraft, offering a visual of what astronauts see from space — a world without borders, united as one.

Seven stars each represent one of the seven continents, shining alight on global inclusivity. The unique geometric shape of the patch, conceived by the astronauts, adds a layer of authenticity and personal connection to the mission. The gem shape symbolises the preciousness of humankind and our shared responsibility to protect and cherish our planet.