The Soyuz TM-29 mission transported Ivan Bella into orbit on 20 February 1999, marking the first time a citizen of Slovakia reached space. Departing from Earth alongside mission commander Viktor Afanasyev and flight engineer Jean-Pierre Haigneré, Bella spent eight days aboard the Mir space station conducting scientific research and studying the survival of Japanese quails in microgravity.
Military Training and Early Career
Ivan Bella was born in 1964 in Brezno, Czechoslovakia. His path toward aviation began with his graduation from military school in 1983, followed by a degree from the Košice Military Academy in 1987. He served as a pilot at the 33rd Air Force Base located in Malacky, Slovakia, eventually achieving the rank of lieutenant colonel within the Slovak Republic Army.
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Selection for spaceflight required intensive preparation. Bella commenced training as a research cosmonaut on 25 March 1998 at the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre, successfully completing the program that August. His mission arrived at the Mir space station on 22 February 1999. During his week on the station, he conducted various scientific experiments. He returned to Earth on 28 February 1999 aboard the Soyuz TM-28 alongside crew member Gennady Padalka.
Diplomatic Service and Continued Military Rank
Following his return from space, Bella transitioned into a diplomatic capacity. In 2004, he took up the position of military attaché for Slovakia in Moscow, Russia. His professional advancement continued within the military hierarchy, where he reached the rank of colonel and later brigadier general.
Honours and Recognitions
The contributions Bella made to space exploration earned him several significant awards. These include the Ľudovít Štúr Order, military division 1st class, granted in 1999. He was also decorated with the Medal 'For Merit in Space Exploration' and the Order of Courage.
Fast facts
- Born: 1964, Brezno
- Citizenship: Slovakia
- Launch Date: 20 February 1999
- Mission: Soyuz TM-29
- Military Rank: Brigadier General
- Key Award: Ľudovít Štúr Order, 1st class
Questions readers ask
What specific research did Ivan Bella perform on Mir?
His work involved various scientific experiments, including testing the survival potential of Japanese quails during long-duration flights.
When did Ivan Bella serve as a military attaché?
He was appointed to serve as a military attaché for Slovakia in Moscow starting in 2004.
Achievements
- Worked as astronaut, aircraft pilot and military personnel
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