French astronaut Sophie Adenot launched to the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday, February 13, marking a milestone as the first French astronaut to journey to space in 25 years. Adenot’s mission is expected to last approximately eight months and features collaboration with two American astronauts and one Russian astronaut, symbolizing France’s renewed presence in human spaceflight.
The launch, initially delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions, took place from Cape Canaveral, Florida, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. After roughly 34 hours in transit, the crew’s capsule successfully docked with the ISS at 9:15 PM Paris time, according to NASA’s live broadcast.
“I am proud to be carrying France and Europe on this incredible adventure that transcends borders. Count on me to share every step with you and make the stars shine in the eyes of the French,” Adenot communicated shortly after reaching the space station.
Adenot, 43, is the second French woman to travel to space, following Claudie Haigneré’s pioneering missions in 1996 and 2001. She is a former test pilot and engineer, and her journey to space has been a lifelong ambition, sparked by watching Haigneré’s flights as a 14-year-old. Haigneré was present at the launch in Florida to offer her support.
The crew, designated Crew-12, includes NASA astronauts Jessica Meir, 48, and Jack Hathaway, 43, as well as Russian cosmonaut Andrey Fediaev, 44. They will join the existing crew of American Christopher Williams and Russian cosmonauts Serguei Koud-Svertchkov and Serguei Mikaïev aboard the ISS.
The ISS, which has been continuously occupied for over two decades, is nearing the end of its operational life and is scheduled for deorbiting around 2031. This impending retirement has prompted discussions about the future of human space exploration, with Russia expressing interest in reclaiming its segment of the station after deorbiting. NASA, in partnership with European and other international space agencies, is investing in a next-generation orbital platform positioned around the Moon.
During her eight-month mission, Adenot will participate in over 200 scientific experiments. These experiments will focus on the effects of microgravity on the human body and the space environment. She will be testing EchoFinder, a system developed by the French space agency CNES, which utilizes artificial intelligence and augmented reality to allow astronauts to perform ultrasounds independently.
The launch was met with enthusiasm in France, particularly at the Cité de l’Espace in Toulouse, a major hub for the French space program. President Emmanuel Macron also offered his encouragement to Adenot in a video message shared on social media, featuring appearances from other prominent figures including astronaut Thomas Pesquet.
The ISS remains a crucial site for international collaboration in space, even as the global geopolitical landscape shifts. Adenot’s mission represents a continuation of this collaborative spirit, and a significant step forward for France’s space program.
