New chapter in the career of Thomas Pesquet. The famous French astronaut announced this October 10, on the professional social network, Linkedin to join “lthe operational reserve of the Air and Space Force.”
“I have an affinity with the institution, friendship and respect for its members, and in another life, who knows, I could have tried to pursue a career as a military pilot” said Thomas Pesquet, to justify “such a decision” in the middle of his career.
He has already completed his first week there.intense: forced march, orientation and crossing techniques in close combat and shooting. With a bag heavier than a space suit“.
Thomas Pesquet remains an astronaut
The one who has already participated in two missions in Space aboard the ISS. The first time from November 2016 to June 2007 as part of the Proxima mission. Then a second time in April 2021 (until October of the same year) for the Alpha mission within the Crew Dragon capsule. After 200 days in orbit, Thomas Pesquet became on October 4, 2021, a few days before his return to Earth, the first French commander of the International Space Station.
These two trips into Space made him the most experienced European astronaut since Thomas Pesquet spent nearly 400 days in space. Also, he is the one who has made the most spacewalks.
But don’t panic, Thomas Pesquet doesn’t plan to get rid of his diving suit right away. And don’t let go of his dream of one day being on the front page. “I remain an astronaut at ESA, with a view to future lunar missions, while using a little of my time for this new activity, always for the benefit of the country.” he clarified, since France is one of the only nations that uses space to ensure the security of its citizens.
