Aleksandr Samokutyayev reached orbit twice as a commander and flight engineer before transitioning to a career in Russian national politics. Born in Penza in 1970, he followed a trajectory from military aviation through the cosmonaut corps to the State Duma, where he represented the Lermontovsky constituency until his death in 2026.
Military and Cosmonaut Training
After early studies at Penza State University in 1987, Samokutyayev pursued a military education, graduating from the Gagarin Air Force Academy in 2000. He served as a pilot and squadron deputy commander within the Russian Air Force. In 2003, he joined the cosmonaut corps, qualifying as a test-cosmonaut two years later. His preparation included extensive training as a backup commander and flight engineer for various International Space Station expeditions.
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Samokutyayev completed two long-duration missions. His first, Expedition 27/28, launched on 4 April 2011 aboard Soyuz TMA-21. During this mission, he conducted a spacewalk to deploy a micro-satellite and install scientific equipment. In 2014, he returned for Expedition 41/42 on Soyuz TMA-14M. During his second stay, he performed another spacewalk, jettisoning obsolete hardware from the station exterior and conducting photographic surveys.
Political Transition and Sanctions
Following his 2017 dismissal from the cosmonaut corps due to medical issues, he entered public service. He earned a degree from the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration in 2019. Serving in both the 7th and 8th State Duma as a member of the Defense Committee, he held his seat representing the Lermontovsky constituency. In 2022, he faced sanctions by the United Kingdom government.
Fast facts
- Born: 1970, Penza
- Died: 17 June 2026
- Rank: Colonel
- Education: Gagarin Air Force Academy
- Political Party: Member of the 7th and 8th State Duma
- Awards: Hero of the Russian Federation
- Burial Site: Federal Military Memorial Cemetery
Questions readers ask
How many spacewalks did Aleksandr Samokutyayev perform?
He performed two spacewalks during his career, one in 2011 and another in 2014.
Which missions did he fly to the International Space Station?
He served on Expedition 27/28 in 2011 and Expedition 41/42 in 2014.
Achievements
- Educated at Penza State University and Gagarin Air Force Academy
- Worked as aircraft pilot, astronaut and politician
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