Soyuz 7 and Soyuz 16 carried Anatoly Filipchenko into orbit during his service as a Soviet cosmonaut. Born in Davydovka in 1928, his career spanned military aviation and space flight, eventually leading to his recognition as a major general in the Air Force. He remained active in the space programme until 1982, later transitioning to administrative roles.
Military and Cosmonaut Career
Filipchenko served as an aircraft pilot before joining the cosmonaut ranks. His tenure included two significant space missions aboard the Soyuz spacecraft series. Throughout his time in the Soviet space programme, he attained the rank of Air Force major general. Following his departure from flight duties in 1982, he accepted a position as the deputy director of the OKB in Kharkiv.
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The state acknowledged his contributions through numerous accolades, including the title Hero of the Soviet Union, which he received twice, in 1969 and 1974. His service record was marked by the receipt of the Gold Star medal on two occasions. Additionally, he held the Order of Lenin, the Order of the Red Banner of Labour, and the State Prize of the USSR. His international recognitions included the Order of the Flag of the People's Republic of Hungary and the Order of the Banner of the Bulgarian People's Republic.
Final Years
Living until the age of 94, Filipchenko passed away on 7 August 2022. His death occurred in Zvyozdny Gorodok, located within the Moscow Oblast. On 11 August 2022, he was interred at the Federal Military Memorial Cemetery. His career concluded with a legacy rooted in his transition from a pilot to an administrator and writer within the Soviet industrial framework.
Fast facts
- Born: 1928, Davydovka
- Died: 7 August 2022, Moscow Oblast
- Rank: Major General
- Primary missions: Soyuz 7, Soyuz 16
- Nationality: Russian, Soviet
- Occupations: Astronaut, writer, aircraft pilot
Questions readers ask
Which missions did Anatoly Filipchenko fly?
He flew as a cosmonaut on the Soyuz 7 and Soyuz 16 missions.
What professional role did he hold after 1982?
He served as the deputy director of the OKB in Kharkiv.
Achievements
- Worked as aircraft pilot, astronaut and writer
