Personal perspectives from the Reserve
Sara García Alonso
“I’ve been looking forward to returning for this second part of reserve training since we finished the first block last year. The physiology and payload development sessions were especially meaningful. Seeing how biomedical research translates into space operations has been incredibly motivating. It’s exciting to think about contributing to experiments that could improve life on Earth and in space. Sharing this experience with such a talented team made it even more special.”
Meganne Christian
"I really enjoyed returning to EAC for this second block of training, which allowed me to deepen my understanding across a broad range of topics and strengthen relationships with the skilled and passionate team there. It was fascinating to learn more about how we work in space: everything from the physics and engineering involved to the laws and regulations that govern it. I also loved learning new practical skills like photography and basic medical tasks. Facing these challenges with my classmates was hugely rewarding."
Anthea Comellini
“From Space Physiology to the Space Station Subsystems Introduction, the modules were deeply engaging. Training as a full team for the first time made the experience even more meaningful: the diversity of the group enriched every discussion and exercise, and we have had many occasion to learn from each other. This is certainly one of the things that I have appreciated the most about this training, together with the professionalism and experience of the team of instructors.”
John McFall
"It was great to have the Astronaut Reserve members together at the European Astronaut Centre. Spending time as a team and sharing the patch ceremony made this period feel special. It was a meaningful way to celebrate the group and the journey we’re all part of."
Andrea Patassa
“I found the orbital mechanics and systems training extremely interesting and a natural extension of my aviation background. At the same time, I loved the classes that pushed me far from my comfort zone, like medicine or photography. Overall, the training has been incredibly diverse and stimulating, and the best part has been experiencing it together with the group. It has truly strengthened our connection, and I feel privileged to share this journey with them.”
Arnaud Prost
"I’m deeply grateful for this second training block at EAC. Every day offered something new and inspiring — from learning about the Space Station systems to diving in the Neutral Buoyancy Facility and experiencing spacewalks, or EVAs, through virtual reality. Yet above all, it’s the human connection that made this journey so special: sharing meaningful moments with my fellow astronaut reserve members and the amazing EAC trainers is truly unforgettable"
Amelie Schoenenwald
“The training offered a unique mix of scientific depth and the very important operational aspects. I particularly enjoyed the anatomy and medical training, as well as the diving, which connected well with my background. The virtual reality simulations and parabolic flights gave us a glimpse of what working aboard the Space Station will be like. Sharing this journey with such a committed and diverse group made the experience truly unforgettable.”
Aleš Svoboda
“Coming back to EAC for this next phase of astronaut training felt like reconnecting with something I genuinely enjoy — learning how spaceflight really works. The parabolic flights were an incredible experience. It’s one thing to study microgravity, but another to feel it. I’ve also really enjoyed diving deeper into aerospace engineering and orbital mechanics, where the theory finally clicks with the operational side of space missions. And the virtual and augmented reality-supported lessons, from anatomy to the International Space Station’s structure, show how much training technology has evolved. It’s a fascinating mix of science, engineering and human adaptation.”