«Returning to the International Space Station to represent Italy and Europe is an honor in itself. The appointment to the position of commander is an additional reason for professional satisfaction. I will humbly try to draw on the experience I have gained in space and on Earth to lead my crew, made up of exceptional people ». These are the first words of Samantha Cristoforetti who will be commander of the International Space Station for expedition number 68.
The launch date is not set for now, although it is certain that it will be next year. Like the last astronauts he will benefit from a ride from Elon Musk. The 44-year-old in her thirties and NASA astronauts Kjell Lindgren and Bob Hines will arrive at the International Space Station in a spacecraft Crew Dragon di SpaceX, with launch from Florida.
ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher said: «The appointment of Samantha to the role of commander of the ISS is an inspiration for an entire generation which is competing to join ESA’s astronaut corps. I can’t wait to meet the final candidates and I take this opportunity to once again encourage women to come forward (the deadline is June 18, ed) ».
Samantha Cristoforetti will be the fifth among ESA astronauts to command the International Space Station, and the fourth in the astronaut class of 2009. For Italy she has already done so. Luca Parmitano.
Great news, @AstroSamantha @that new commander of the international space station. From a woman another path opened in science, another beginning for Italy. Congratulations Samantha! pic.twitter.com/WfUP77XZb2
– Elena Bonetti (@elenabonetti) May 28, 2021
Frank De Winne was the first European commander of the International Space Station: «The commander of the Space Station works to promote team spirit among the astronauts and between the crew on board and the teams on earth, to make sure that everyone can give the best of themselves. Samantha proved to be a highly competent and trusted leader during NASA’s NEEMO23 mission, as well as in many other activities. Her experience and her way of working make her a valuable resource for ESA and our partners and I am sure she will represent us well during her mission in space “
David Parker, ESA’s Director of Human and Robotics Exploration, calls her an example: “Samantha joined us just over ten years ago as a very capable recruit. She is now a space flight veteran about to take on a leadership role. Like many of our active astronauts, Samantha reconciles a challenging career and caring for her family, embracing both challenges with the full support of ESA. In recent months Samantha has often encouraged anyone who dreams of being an astronaut and meets the minimum requirements to come forward and participate in the selection ».
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