Roskosmos outlines planned Belarusian cosmonaut involvement in ISS missions

No time to read?
Get a summary

Roskosmos has outlined a plan involving the crew of the Soyuz MS-23 mission, noting that one member may remain on the International Space Station to coordinate a brief additional flight to the orbit for a Belarusian cosmonaut. The goal is to ensure a smooth transition and proper sequencing for the Belarusian participant during the mission window, according to a Roskosmos spokesperson. This decision hinges on selecting the Belarusian candidate who will be prepared for the extended stay and orbit insertion, with final arrangements adjusted as the selection process unfolds. (Source: Roskosmos)

Officials disclosed that the need for a longer stay is tied to mission logistics and the requirements of the Belarusian space program. No specific cosmonaut has been picked yet for the Belarusian assignment, and Roskosmos is awaiting the official list of Belarusian candidates before moving to an election. The approach aims to align the Belarusian involvement with the overall timing of the Soyuz MS-23 mission and the ISS schedule, ensuring adequate training and readiness for the additional flight phase. (Source: Roskosmos)

Previously, Rogozin indicated that Belarus had expressed a desire to identify a candidate who could begin training promptly for a potential spaceflight. The expectation has been that the first Belarusian cosmonaut could undertake a space mission within the 2023 to 2024 timeframe, subject to the necessary preparations and approvals. This roadmap reflects ongoing collaboration between Russia, Belarus, and the partner agencies overseeing ISS missions. (Source: Roskosmos)

Earlier statements suggested that Russia might welcome a Belarusian cosmonaut to join the ISS crew, an idea that had been discussed at high levels. The plan requires consensus on all operational details to ensure safety and mission success, with coordinating bodies agreeing on training, health checks, and mission parameters before any crew selection is finalized. (Source: Kremlin and space program officials)

The leadership has emphasized that all aspects of the arrangement must be carefully coordinated, covering training timelines, flight health standards, and the integration of the Belarusian participant into the ISS crew rotation. The discussions reflect a broader partnership framework and a shared interest in advancing space cooperation among the involved nations, while maintaining strict adherence to international spaceflight protocols. (Source: Official briefings)

No time to read?
Get a summary
Previous Article

The euro zone’s rate hike tests Valencian finances and regional debt strategy

Next Article

We Won’t Kill Each Other With Pistols: Valencia, Friendship, and a Generational Reckoning