Michael Lopez-Alegria, Axiom Space’s Chief Astronaut, emphasized Ventura’s unique expertise, noting that he is an ideal candidate to lead this pilot program, which will include training alongside experienced astronauts like Peggy Whitson and Koichi Wakata.

Emiliano Ventura, a seasoned Portuguese physiologist with over two decades of experience in sports science and extreme environment performance, is preparing for a future space mission by undertaking a specialized six-month astronaut training program.

This initiative was announced at the 2025 International Astronautical Congress in Sydney, where Axiom Space revealed Ventura as its first-ever 'Project Astronaut,' marking a significant milestone in their astronaut training and research efforts.

The program aims to combine human performance research with operational astronaut training, leveraging Axiom Space's infrastructure and expertise to enhance future astronaut preparation and safety.

Axiom Space's leadership in commercial spaceflight is reinforced through this innovative training and research collaboration, advancing international space programs and scientific exploration.

Ventura's training includes advanced techniques such as parabolic flights, centrifuge, altitude chamber, underwater helicopter escape, biomedical assessments, and spacesuit operations, all designed to optimize human performance in space.

His personalized, science-driven approach is supported by MSI Bioperformance and PowerMotion Group, which provide diagnostics, recovery, and performance programs tailored for astronauts and elite athletes.

Ventura's scientific research focuses on physiological responses to microgravity, especially during preflight training, contributing valuable insights into space physiology.