ESA’s Astronaut Reserve completes second training phase

This builds on the first phase of Astronaut Reserve Training (ART), which was completed in two separate groups at the end of 2024 and early 2025. In this second phase, both groups came together for eight intense weeks of training to boost their technical knowledge, operational skills and physical readiness for future missions.

A highlight of this period was the ART patch ceremony, celebrating astronaut reserve members Sara García Alonso from Spain, Meganne Christian and John McFall from the UK, Anthea Comellini and Andrea Patassa from Italy, Carmen Possnig from Austria, Arnaud Prost from France, Amelie Schoenenwald from Germany and Aleš Svoboda from Czechia.

The training started with the big picture: how space missions work. The members of the reserve learned the essentials of space mission design, propulsion, spacecraft systems and the space environment. This knowledge helps astronauts understand the vehicles and environments they will work in and react quickly if something goes wrong.

Topics included spacecraft structures, thermal control, power systems, communication, attitude control, orbital mechanics, rendezvous, reentry and environmental control and life support systems.

Later, the focus shifted to life aboard the International Space Station. The team practised using its systems, command and data handling, guidance and navigation, preparing experiments and using cameras and video equipment. These skills are key for running daily operations, supporting science and keeping the world connected with space.

Remote lectures introduced the members of the reserve to international space law, national regulations and the legal aspects of new space activities. These sessions provide astronauts with the bigger picture of space exploration and cooperation, helping them understand the frameworks that govern their missions.

This second block of joint astronaut reserve training at EAC marks a significant milestone in ESA's commitment to preparing its astronaut reserve for future missions. With a strong foundation in technical, operational and public engagement skills, the group is well-positioned to contribute to Europe's human spaceflight ambitions. They are scheduled to return in the first half of 2026 for the final phase of Astronaut Reserve Training.

Sara García Alonso

“I’ve been looking forward to returning for this second part of reserve training since we finished the first block last year. The physiology and payload development sessions were especially meaningful. Seeing how biomedical research translates into space operations has been incredibly motivating. It’s exciting to think about contributing to experiments that could improve life on Earth and in space. Sharing this experience with such a talented team made it even more special.”

Meganne Christian

"I really enjoyed returning to EAC for this second block of training, which allowed me to deepen my understanding across a broad range of topics and strengthen relationships with the skilled and passionate team there. It was fascinating to learn more about how we work in space: everything from the physics and engineering involved to the laws and regulations that govern it. I also loved learning new practical skills like photography and basic medical tasks. Facing these challenges with my classmates was hugely rewarding."

Anthea Comellini

“From Space Physiology to the Space Station Subsystems Introduction, the modules were deeply engaging. Training as a full team for the first time made the experience even more meaningful: the diversity of the group enriched every discussion and exercise, and we have had many occasion to learn from each other. This is certainly one of the things that I have appreciated the most about this training, together with the professionalism and experience of the team of instructors.”

John McFall

"It was great to have the Astronaut Reserve members together at the European Astronaut Centre. Spending time as a team and sharing the patch ceremony made this period feel special. It was a meaningful way to celebrate the group and the journey we’re all part of."

Andrea Patassa

“I found the orbital mechanics and systems training extremely interesting and a natural extension of my aviation background. At the same time, I loved the classes that pushed me far from my comfort zone, like medicine or photography. Overall, the training has been incredibly diverse and stimulating, and the best part has been experiencing it together with the group. It has truly strengthened our connection, and I feel privileged to share this journey with them.”

Arnaud Prost

"I’m deeply grateful for this second training block at EAC. Every day offered something new and inspiring — from learning about the Space Station systems to diving in the Neutral Buoyancy Facility and experiencing spacewalks, or EVAs, through virtual reality. Yet above all, it’s the human connection that made this journey so special: sharing meaningful moments with my fellow astronaut reserve members and the amazing EAC trainers is truly unforgettable"

Amelie Schoenenwald

“The training offered a unique mix of scientific depth and the very important operational aspects. I particularly enjoyed the anatomy and medical training, as well as the diving, which connected well with my background. The virtual reality simulations and parabolic flights gave us a glimpse of what working aboard the Space Station will be like. Sharing this journey with such a committed and diverse group made the experience truly unforgettable.”

Aleš Svoboda

“Coming back to EAC for this next phase of astronaut training felt like reconnecting with something I genuinely enjoy — learning how spaceflight really works. The parabolic flights were an incredible experience. It’s one thing to study microgravity, but another to feel it. I’ve also really enjoyed diving deeper into aerospace engineering and orbital mechanics, where the theory finally clicks with the operational side of space missions. And the virtual and augmented reality-supported lessons, from anatomy to the International Space Station’s structure, show how much training technology has evolved. It’s a fascinating mix of science, engineering and human adaptation.”