The new Swiss astronaut Sieber is not afraid of space
Published: Monday, Apr 22nd 2024, 14:01
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The new Swiss astronaut Marco Sieber is not afraid of his upcoming flight into space. "It's actually a very safe business," he told the Keystone-SDA news agency on Monday after receiving his astronaut diploma.
He has confidence in the space organizations and the people behind them. In addition, after completing his basic training, he is prepared for any situation that may arise. "You learn everything you need to know in training," said the new astronaut. "I'm just looking forward to what comes next."
The 35-year-old from Bern sees the uncertainty that comes with being an astronaut as the biggest challenge. "It's uncertain when you'll be where, you can't just plan your life well. That's probably the most difficult thing for me," he said. However, he has never regretted his decision to become an astronaut.
However, despite completing and passing basic astronaut training, he does not really feel like an astronaut. "I don't think you're really an astronaut until you've flown into space," said the former doctor. But it will probably be at least another two years before that happens: the first of the new astronauts will fly to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2026, followed by another one every year until 2030.
"Great day for Switzerland"
The completion of his basic training marks the start of a new chapter in his life, said Sieber. "It's a great day for me, ESA and Switzerland," said Sieber. It was a big dream come true. A dream that he had long considered unrealistic.
After a few days' vacation, Sieber will soon begin pre-assignment training - in other words, further training sessions such as flying lessons and medical training.
"The whole apprenticeship was a highlight for me, I found it incredibly exciting," said Sieber. However, he particularly enjoyed the practical parts of the training. "For example, the survival training, the diving training and the parabolic flights where you experienced weightlessness." He also had a good relationship with the other astronauts, so he always looked forward to the lunch breaks with them.
©Keystone/SDA
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