European Astronauts

Since 1983, ESA astronauts have been taking part in missions on board the US Space Shuttle and the Russian Mir space station, gaining a wealth of experience in many disciplines.

In 1998, the European Astronaut Centre was established in Germany to train European astronauts for missions to the International Space Station, ISS. Most have already flown on missions to the ISS, playing a vital role in the assembly and operation of key elements of the station.

They carry out research in life sciences, human physiology and materials science in microgravity conditions, delivering results that cannot be achieved here on Earth. Such studies can help us in many areas, from understanding the causes of diseases or developing techniques for their prevention and treatment, to the introduction of new manufacturing processes.

Six new astronauts joined ESA in 2009 to prepare for the next generation of human spaceflight and exploration. They completed their basic training in November 2010 and will now continue to prepare for future missions to the ISS and beyond.

In 2010, ESA astronaut Paolo Nespoli flew to the station as Flight Engineer for a 6-month mission. Paolo is carrying out an intensive programme of scientific and educational experiments. Paolo’s duties onboard include participating in docking operations for the second Automated Transfer Vehicle.