“The successful mission of Dr. Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski is not only a milestone in the history of Polish science – it is a testament to the courage and spirit that has shaped our national aspirations for generations: ‘Reach where the eye cannot see. Break what the mind cannot break,’” wrote President of Poland Andrzej Duda.
Polish Astronaut Returns to Earth – Congratulations from President Duda
The members of the Ax-4 mission, including Polish astronaut Dr. Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, returned to Earth on Tuesday. Around noon Polish time, after splashing down in the Pacific Ocean, they exited the Dragon Grace capsule—used to travel from the International Space Station (ISS)—and boarded the recovery vessel MV Shannon.
President Andrzej Duda posted a message on the X platform congratulating the Polish astronaut:
“Dr. Uznański, welcome back to Earth!
With great admiration and pride, we followed your work on the International Space Station, where you conducted experiments, many of which were designed by Polish scientists. We especially thank you for your educational outreach during the mission. Live connections from space offered an invaluable lesson for young, ambitious Poles—a lesson that will bear fruit in the future.
Today, we celebrate your safe return to Earth.”
The President continued:
“Dr. Uznański-Wiśniewski’s successful mission is not only a breakthrough in the history of Polish science—it reflects the courage and spirit that for generations have shaped our national ambitions: ‘Reach where the eye cannot see. Break what the mind cannot break.’
May this historic landing become a source of pride for the older generations and an inspiration for the young!
Dr. Uznański—congratulations! Bravo! Poland thanks you for your courage!”
The Dragon Grace capsule splashed down around 11:30 AM Polish time in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego. About half an hour later, recovery teams retrieved the capsule from the water and lifted it aboard the MV Shannon, the vessel designated for recovering Dragon missions. After the hatch was opened, the astronauts exited the capsule and boarded the ship. As explained during a live broadcast by representatives of Axiom Space, the primary operator of the mission, a helicopter will transport the crew back to land.
Shortly after splashdown, medical personnel conducted initial remote interviews with the astronauts to assess their condition. Doctors accompanied the Ax-4 mission members as they left the capsule and will continue to care for them during the helicopter transfer and their journey to rehabilitation centers, where the astronauts are expected to spend approximately two weeks.