display
Cologne / Paris (dpa) - The German astronaut Alexander Gerst (44) expected a rejection of his application to the European Space Agency Esa in 2008.
"I thought astronauts had to be supermen - and it was clear to me that I, however, am only human," said Gerst of the German press agency.
He also knew the statistics.
“Thousands of people apply, but only four to six are selected.
It would be very arrogant to think: “Of course I can do it”.
It's more about giving your dream a fair chance. "
The geophysicist from Künzelsau (Baden-Württemberg) was taken and flew to the International Space Station ISS in 2014 and 2018.
For the first time in more than a decade, Esa is looking for new space travelers from the end of March.
The organization also looks out for astronauts with a certain degree of physical disability.
"We need a good representation of society in the astronaut corps," said Gerst.
“It's not about doing people with disabilities a favor.
But that we see diversity as an opportunity. "
display
© dpa-infocom, dpa: 210305-99-697684 / 2
Esa announcement