The ART of training
For the first group of ESA’s Astronaut Reserve, two intensive months of Astronaut Reserve Training (ART) have come to a close. During this initial training phase, members of the ESA Astronaut Reserve Sara García Alonso from Spain, Andrea Patassa from Italy, Arnaud Prost from France, Amelie Schoenenwald from Germany, and Aleš Svoboda from Czechia were introduced to essential skills required for future space exploration and scientific research.
Selected from 22 500 applicants across ESA Member States, these members of the Astronaut Reserve passed the ESA astronaut selection of 2022 , which included a class of five career astronauts and 12 members of the Astronaut Reserve. Their training started in October 2024 at ESA’s European Astronaut Centre (EAC) in Cologne, Germany.
The ART programme draws on modules from ESA’s basic astronaut training, designed to equip participants with an initial technical and operational expertise for space missions, increasing their readiness to step into specific mission training quickly if required. Over the course of the programme, this first group gained a solid grounding in spacecraft systems, flight engineering, robotics, and life support systems, forming the technical backbone of their training.
A highlight of their training was a spacewalk familiarisation. At ESA’s Neutral Buoyancy Facility, these members of the Astronaut Reserve practised scuba diving to simulate the weightlessness of microgravity. These sessions offered an introduction to tasks such as conducting repairs or installing equipment, providing a glimpse into the skills required for operations on the International Space Station or future lunar exploration.
Scientific preparation was another key focus. The group completed foundational courses in biology and laboratory techniques to be ready for conducting experiments in space. They also participated in physical fitness routines and public engagement activities, supporting ESA’s mission to inspire and educate.
To conclude this first training phase, Sara, Andrea, Arnaud, Amelie and Aleš undertook survival exercises in winter conditions. These activities prepare them for extreme environments they may encounter during missions, such as unplanned spacecraft landings in remote locations. Throughout this course, they learn essential survival skills, such as lighting fires in the wilderness, managing cold-related injuries and hypothermia, building makeshift stretchers and snow shelters, all while enduring nights in sub-zero temperatures.
This group will return to EAC later in 2025 for the next stage of their training, building on the foundation they have established. Meanwhile, a second group of members from ESA’s Astronaut Reserve –including Meganne Christian from the UK, Anthea Comellini from Italy, John McFall from the UK and Carmen Possnig from Austria— will begin their ART programme in January 2025.
ESA’s Astronaut Reserve Training programme reflects the agency’s commitment to advancing Europe’s human spaceflight capabilities. By equipping these individuals with the skills they need, ESA is preparing for the challenges and opportunities of future missions in Earth orbit and beyond.
Sharing their experiences of ART
Sara García Alonso
"It’s been an incredible journey, really life-changing. The training here at EAC is so varied, which makes it so engaging –every day is different. I keep my research job alongside this training, so it’s like living two lives at once. The practical experience and hands-on training here complement my work back in the lab beautifully, and it’s fascinating to see how they intersect. I’m really looking forward to the future and seeing where this journey takes me."
Andrea Patassa
"The Astronaut Reserve Training journey is both challenging and rewarding. From diving into a neutral buoyancy pool to trekking through the snow-covered Pyrenees for winter survival training, it’s a constant test of technical skills, resilience, adaptability and teamwork. Each challenge reinforces the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone to grow and serves as a reminder of the privilege of contributing to space exploration."
Arnaud Prost
"Being selected as part of the astronaut class of 2022 was an incredible honour. Training at the European Astronaut Center in Cologne has been an eye-opening experience, offering a glimpse into the complexities and the excitement of space exploration. Each day is a step closer to understanding the challenges we might face beyond our planet, and it’s inspiring to be part of a team that shares this vision. I’m eager to take on the unique training experiences ahead, as they will be key in preparing us for what’s to come."
Amelie Schoenenwald
"Arriving at the European Astronaut Centre in Cologne felt like coming home. The atmosphere here is incredible, from experienced space experts to motivated interns, everyone is contributing to a truly inspiring environment. Teamwork is at the heart of everything we do, not just for missions but for daily life as well. Knowing your team, understanding how everyone operates, and supporting each other through challenges are essential skills we develop here. Everyone is collaborative and supportive, creating a strong sense of camaraderie and shared purpose."
Aleš Svoboda
"Being selected as part of the ESA Astronaut Reserve was an incredible moment of happiness. Now, as we immerse into training, I’m especially enjoying the hands-on activities, from diving in the Neutral Buoyancy Facility to exploring the history of human spaceflight alongside experts. I also see it as an opportunity to share the excitement of spaceflight and motivate young people to explore STEM fields. In the Czech Republic, we need more graduates in technical and scientific areas, and I believe space can inspire the next generation to pursue these paths."