The Soyuz TM-5 mission launched on 7 June 1988, carrying Aleksandr Panayotov Aleksandrov into orbit as a research cosmonaut. This flight established him as the second Bulgarian to reach outer space. During his time in the Soviet space program, he operated aboard the Mir space station, spending nearly ten days in orbit before returning to Earth on 17 June.
Early Military Career
Born in Omurtag on 1 December 1951, Aleksandr Panayotov Aleksandrov pursued a military trajectory through the Bulgarian Air Force. He graduated from the Bulgarian Air Force Academy in 1974. His service saw him advance through various ranks, including lieutenant, senior lieutenant, and eventually reaching the rank of lieutenant colonel. In 1983, he earned a degree in technical sciences, providing the academic foundation for his later transition into specialized aerospace research.
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In 1978, the Intercosmos program selected Aleksandrov as a research cosmonaut. His initial assignment involved serving as the backup to Georgi Ivanov for the Soyuz 33 mission, which intended to reach the Salyut 6 space station but failed to dock. Aleksandrov later secured a place on the prime crew for the Soyuz TM-5 mission. Alongside commander Anatoly Solovyev and Viktor Savinykh, he reached the Mir space station. This mission marked his distinction as the first Bulgarian to successfully dock with and operate on a Soviet space station.
Post-Flight Research and Legacy
Following his spaceflight, Aleksandrov continued his professional work as a research scientist and served as the Deputy Director of the Institute of Space Research at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. The state recognized his contributions through multiple high-level honors, including the Gold Star medal, the Order of Lenin, and the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, all awarded in 1988. In 2011, he received the Medal for Merit in Space Exploration for his role in fostering international cooperation in crewed flight. Aleksandrov died on 10 July 2026 at age 74.
Fast facts
- Born: 1 December 1951, Omurtag
- Died: 10 July 2026
- Spaceflight: Soyuz TM-5
- Highest Military Rank: Major General
- Awards: Hero of the Soviet Union (1988)
- Alma Mater: Bulgarian Air Force Academy (1974)
- Notable Positions: Deputy Director, Institute of Space Research
Questions readers ask
When did Aleksandr Aleksandrov fly in space?
He launched on 7 June 1988 and returned to Earth on 17 June 1988.
Was he the first Bulgarian in space?
No, he was the second Bulgarian to reach outer space, following Georgi Ivanov.
Achievements
- Worked as astronaut, military officer and military personnel
