From being a particle physicist with a deep-rooted profession at CERN (European Group for Nuclear Analysis) to making ready for a journey to the Worldwide House Station (ISS), Polish engineer and ESA astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski embodies the fusion of science and exploration. Now set to fly on the Axiom-4 mission, he brings expertise from CERN to the challenges of human spaceflight. As Poland’s first consultant on the ISS, very like India’s Shubhanshu Shukla, his mission isn’t just scientific—it’s symbolic. In an unique interview to TOI, he displays on the intersections between particle physics and area exploration, the calls for of astronaut coaching, and extra.Excerpts:How do you see particle physics and area exploration intersecting sooner or later?With my expertise at CERN, I’ve witnessed how particle physics can drive area exploration. Each fields tackle profound questions: what’s the universe manufactured from, how did it start, and what’s its destiny? A key instance is CERN’s Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) aboard the ISS, a serious experiment probing cosmic origins. Applied sciences developed for particle accelerators—particularly in radiation physics—are crucial for astronaut security on long-duration missions. Supplies examined underneath excessive circumstances at CERN are bettering spacecraft sturdiness, whereas autonomous techniques developed for advanced experiments are revolutionising distant mission operations. These advances additionally profit Earth—enhancing medical remedies and sustainable expertise. It’s an exhilarating time as innovation flows between science and area.What excites you most about being in ESA’s astronaut reserve & how has it ready you?Probably the most thrilling half is being on the slicing fringe of area science, collaborating with sensible minds throughout Europe. My engineering background, mixed with coaching from ESA and scientific work at CERN, has ready me properly for the Ax-4 mission. Each ingredient—from analysis to operations—has outfitted me for human spaceflight. It’s a privilege to contribute to such a mission and assist form the way forward for exploration.How do you transition from distant Earth expeditions to challenges in area?Outside exploration has taught me resilience, adaptability, and preparation—abilities very important for spaceflight. Whether or not mountaineering or conducting zero-gravity experiments, it’s about staying targeted and solution-driven. The endurance constructed on Earth helps me embrace the calls for of area. The drive behind my scientific and exploratory pursuits is identical: a ardour for the unknown. I’ve at all times chased the massive questions.What second impressed your path towards the ISS?One pivotal second was working at CERN on the LHC’s powering techniques, and later, as an Engineer in Cost. Working the world’s most advanced scientific machine for a world group of researchers was profoundly motivating. Transferring into area analysis and ISS collaboration felt like a pure subsequent step. The Ax-4 mission is a continuation of that journey—utilizing science to unlock common mysteries and contribute to one thing bigger than myself.How will your Ax-4 mission influence Poland’s function in area analysis?Poland is steadily gaining momentum in area analysis, and the Ax-4 mission is a milestone. It showcases our scientific potential and conjures up funding in STEM. By conducting space-based research, we spotlight Poland’s contributions to worldwide exploration. This mission isn’t nearly science—it’s about inspiring future generations and positioning Poland as a critical area participant. I’m proud to characterize my nation in its first mission to the ISS.
