Spacecraft Carrying Saudi Astronauts Splashes Down Successfully in Atlantic Ocean

Riyadh, May 31, 2023, SPA -- The Saudi Space Commission (SSC) said the spacecraft carrying astronauts Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Alqarni, and the crew of the "Ax-2" mission to Earth has returned, marking the end of the two Saudi astronauts' distinguished scientific experiments aboard the International Space Station.
The two astronauts have successfully contributed to scientific research that benefits humanity, utilizing the promising opportunities provided by space exploration and its many related industries, and boosted Saudi-manned flight capabilities.
This pioneering mission is a significant accomplishment and a source of pride for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; it contributed to the country's technological and scientific advancement in the field of space. The Kingdom is one of a select few nations in which a team conducts space science missions and research journeys in orbit around the Earth.
According to SSC, the spacecraft carrying Barnawi and Alqarni safely landed in the Atlantic Ocean.
The spacecraft's entry into the Earth atmosphere caused the landing to slow considerably. Large airbags and umbrellas were also employed to slow it down. When the capsule touched down in the water, SpaceX boats were at hand to retrieve the astronauts.
The mission of the Saudi crew is testimony of the Kingdom's advancement in the field, its commitment to innovation and an important step toward achieving its goal of becoming a leader in space exploration through pioneering research, strategic partnerships and advanced education.
The "Ax-2" mission was launched from Florida on May 21. The spacecraft successfully docked with the International Space Station about 16 hours after launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral.
The two Saudi astronauts conducted 14 scientific experiments in space before returning to Earth.
--SPA