ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot is poised to embark on her first mission to the International Space Station (ISS), a mission designated εpsilon
. Scheduled to launch no earlier than , the mission represents a significant step for both Adenot and the European Space Agency (ESA), highlighting a continued commitment to international collaboration in space exploration.
The name εpsilon
itself is layered with meaning. In mathematics, ε represents a small quantity, a nod to the individual contributions of astronauts within the vast undertaking of spaceflight. In astronomy, it signifies the fifth-brightest star in a constellation. This symbolism underscores the mission’s core philosophy: that even seemingly small contributions can have a significant impact.
Adenot will launch aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from Florida, USA, alongside a multinational crew. Her crewmates include NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, as well as Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrei Fedyaev. This international composition is typical of ISS missions, reflecting the collaborative nature of the orbiting laboratory.
The εpsilon
mission is expected to last approximately nine months, spanning Expeditions 74 and 75 aboard the ISS. During this time, Adenot will be deeply involved in a wide range of scientific experiments, both European-led and those conducted by other international partners. The CNES (French space agency) estimates that Adenot will contribute to around 200 experiments with seven specifically prepared for the mission by the CADMOS centre for the development of microgravity applications and space operations in Toulouse.
This mission marks several firsts for Adenot. It is her inaugural spaceflight, making her the first Hopper
– a term used by ESA to describe astronauts selected for future missions – to fly. She will be the second French woman to join an ISS crew, following Claudie Haigneré who flew in 2001. This continues a growing trend of increased diversity within the astronaut corps.
The experiments Adenot will participate in are designed to advance knowledge in a variety of fields, benefiting both life on Earth and future space exploration. While specific details of all experiments haven’t been publicly released, the involvement of the CADMOS centre suggests a focus on microgravity research, potentially including studies in fluid physics, materials science, and human physiology. The long duration of the mission – nine months – will allow for extended observation and data collection, crucial for many scientific investigations.
The assignment of Adenot to the ISS mission was announced in May 2024 by ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher, alongside the assignment of fellow ESA astronaut Raphaël Liégeois. This demonstrates ESA’s commitment to maintaining a strong European presence in space, particularly as exploration activities expand with programs like Artemis. Both astronauts recently completed their basic training, graduating from ESA’s European Astronaut Centre in Germany in April 2024.
The εpsilon
mission builds upon previous European contributions to the ISS. It is the first flight of a French astronaut to the ISS since Thomas Pesquet’s Alpha
mission in 2021. This continuity of participation is vital for maintaining European expertise in spaceflight and ensuring continued access to the unique research opportunities offered by the ISS.
The launch is currently scheduled for , but is designated no earlier than
this date, indicating that the launch window is subject to change based on technical readiness and weather conditions. Interested viewers can watch the launch live on the European Space Agency’s YouTube channel.
The εpsilon
mission represents more than just a single astronaut’s journey to space. It embodies a commitment to scientific advancement, international collaboration, and the continued exploration of the cosmos. Adenot’s nine-month stay aboard the ISS promises to yield valuable insights and contribute to our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
