ESA Astronaut Class 2022 Press briefing (Live)

The ESA Astronaut Class of 2022 was officially announced on November 23, 2022, at the Grand Palais Éphémère in Paris. The class includes five career astronauts and twelve reserve/project astronauts, including one with a physical disability. The new astronauts began their basic training at the European Astronaut Centre (EAC) in Cologne, Germany, in April 2023, aligning with the highest standards set by International Space Station partners. The first official press conference for the class took place on May 3, 2023, where candidates shared their experiences and ambitions. A graduation ceremony marking the completion of their basic training was held on April 22, 2024, at the EAC, with media invited to attend and interact with the astronauts and training experts. This new class represents ESA's commitment to diversity and inclusion, pioneering the integration of astronauts with disabilities and expanding Europe's role in human space exploration. More details can be found on ESA WebTV and YouTube.