High-flying University of Surrey researcher chosen as European astronaut...
Wednesday 20 May 2009
A postdoctoral researcher at the University of Surrey was today announced as one of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) next intake of astronauts. Dr Andreas Mogensen was presented at an event in Paris among just six successful applicants from an initial list of over 8,000, and is now expected to undertake missions to the International Space Station, the Moon and beyond.
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Led by Jean-Jacques Dordain, ESA Director General, and Simonetta Di Pippo, ESA Director of Human Spaceflight, the presentation ceremony marks the culmination of an extensive application process lasting more than a year.
The news is further recognition of the world-class research and expertise at the University’s Surrey Space Centre, where Dr Mogensen has been based since 2008. His work focusses on precision guidance, navigation, and control for pinpoint landing on lunar and Mars missions, and is overseen by Dr Vaios Lappas, an international expert in Space Vehicle Control.
Christopher Snowden, University of Surrey Vice-Chancellor, said:
“This is an incredible personal achievement for Andreas and a tribute to his colleagues at the University’s Surrey Space Centre, which is rightly known as a hub for space research in Europe. Andreas is a prime example of the talent the University of Surrey attracts and develops, and we take immense pride in today’s announcement.”
Photo credit: ESA - S. Corvaja, 2009
