Samantha Cristoforetti

Born: 26 April 1977 Nationality: Italian
Hobbies: hiking, scuba diving, caving, swimming, running, weight training and yoga.
Other interests include learning foreign languages, reading and ballroom dancing

After completing her studies in Italy, Samantha did a master’s degree in engineering in Germany and then another degree in aeronautical sciences back in Italy. In 2005 she graduated from the Air Force Academy.

Samantha is now a lieutenant in the Italian Air Force. She has logged more than 500 hours flying time on six types of military aircraft.

Samantha was selected as an ESA astronaut in May 2009.