Countdown Begins for Astronaut Sophie Adenot

The countdown is on for astronaut Sophie Adenot as she prepares for her upcoming mission aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon, set to launch towards the International Space Station (ISS). With just one month remaining, the excitement builds as she readies herself for this significant journey.

On January 5, Adenot made her final media appearance at the European Astronaut Centre (EAC) in Cologne, Germany. The weeks leading up to her departure are expected to be intense, with the launch scheduled for February 15 from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, USA.

During her last public engagement, Adenot participated in a tradition that dates back to the early days of space exploration by planting a tree. This custom, established by Russian cosmonauts, has seen astronauts and cosmonauts alike plant trees in designated areas since Yuri Gagarin's historic flight in 1961.

Adenot will be part of the Crew-12 team, which includes:

• Jessica Meir – Commander – NASA (USA)
• Jack Hathaway – Pilot – NASA (USA)
• Sophie Adenot – Mission Specialist – ESA (France)
• Andrey Fedyaev – Mission Specialist – Roscosmos (Russia)

Milestones for an Astronaut

Sophie Adenot holds several distinctions as she embarks on her mission. She is the first astronaut from her selection group to fly into space. Selected in November 2022, she has undergone rigorous training alongside her fellow astronauts, known as the Hoppers, before being chosen for the εpsilon mission.

This mission marks a notable achievement as it will be the longest European mission to date, lasting eight months, which exceeds the average duration of previous missions that have typically lasted around six months.

Additionally, Adenot will experience the shortest training period ever completed by an astronaut for a mission, having learned all necessary procedures in less than two years and ten months.

Despite the challenges, Adenot expresses confidence and tranquility, stating, “Being a European and French astronaut aboard the ISS is an honor.” Inspired by France's first female astronaut, Claudie Haigneré, she hopes to serve as a role model for young girls, emphasizing the importance of daring to dream.