“Samantha joined us just over a decade ago as a highly capable recruit. Now she is a veteran space flyer taking on a leading role.

“Like a number of our active astronauts, Samantha balances a demanding career with raising a family. She embraces both of these challenges with ESA’s strong support and has been an advocate for all those who might be considering a career as an astronaut to put themselves forward and apply.

“I am delighted to see Samantha’s skills, experience and hard work recognised through her appointment to International Space Station commander position. I have no doubt she will continue to inspire us to embrace challenge, maximise our abilities and further our knowledge in space or on Earth,” he says.

For more information about ESA’s astronaut selection visit esa.int/yourwaytospace.