A five-month voyage named for the father of modern physics

Space · Published 8 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Watch as British astronaut Tim Peake prepares for a long-duration mission to the International Space Station. This overview explains the scope of his work and why this specific journey holds historical significance.

The Principia mission is the eighth long-duration stay at the International Space Station, with its name honoring Isaac Newton’s seminal work, Naturalis Principia Mathematica. Launched from Baikonur in Kazakhstan via a Russian Soyuz vehicle, Peake will spend five months in orbit.

During his time in space, Peake will execute an intensive schedule of international and European experiments. Beyond scientific research, the mission prioritizes educational activities designed to engage audiences on Earth.

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