“Basic Astronaut Training was an intense experience that emphasized the importance of teamwork and lifelong learning”Raphaël Liégeois stated. “I am ready to put these lessons into practice as I begin the next phase of my journey. I look forward to contributing to scientific discovery and progress, inspired by Belgium’s unwavering determination to explore new frontiers.
Lunar Base and Time Zone for the Moon: NASA’s Crazy New Project
Selected in 2022 by the ESA Ministerial Council, the astronaut candidates began their basic training in April 2023, first at ESA’s European Astronaut Center in Cologne, Germany, and then around the world. They completed a year-long training program covering basic skills such as spacecraft systems, spacewalks, flight engineering, robotics and life support systems, as well as survival and medical training.
After certification, the Class of 2022 astronauts will move on to further phases of preassignment and mission-specific training, paving the way for future missions to the International Space Station and beyond.