Soyuz MS-16 carried Ivan Vagner into orbit on 9 April 2020, marking the beginning of his tenure as a flight engineer for the International Space Station. Selected as a cosmonaut in October 2010, his trajectory moved from terrestrial engineering roles to active space exploration, culminating in a critical role during the Expedition 62 and 63 missions.
Early Development and Technical Education
Born on 10 July 1985 in Severoonezhsk, Arkhangelsk region, Vagner attended the local North-Onega secondary school from 1993 until 2003. He advanced his technical proficiency at the Baltic State Technical University, graduating in 2008. By 2009, he completed a master's degree in Aeronautical Engineering at the same institution, providing the academic foundation necessary for his subsequent career in aerospace design and operations.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Professional Engineering Background
Before his selection for the cosmonaut program, Vagner served as a design engineer for Klimov JSC starting in 2007, focusing on the development of gas-turbine engines for civil and military aircraft. He moved to RSC Energia in 2008, where he functioned as an assistant flight manager for the International Space Station program from February 2009 until October 2010.
Spaceflight and Expedition Operations
After graduating from basic spaceflight training in 2012, Vagner faced initial setbacks, including removal from the ISS Expedition 53/54 crew in 2016 due to logistical changes regarding the Nauka module. His opportunity arrived in 2020 when he joined the prime crew for Soyuz MS-16. Upon arriving at the ISS, he transitioned from Expedition 62 to Expedition 63. During this period, he supported the arrival of the SpaceX Crew Dragon Demo-2, which carried NASA astronauts Doug Hurley and Robert Behnken, the first crewed orbital flight from US soil since 2011.
Recognition and Military Status
Vagner holds the military rank of lieutenant. His contributions to the Russian space program have been formally acknowledged through several high-level decorations. On 5 April 2022, he received the title Hero of the Russian Federation. His other honors include the Gagarin medal, the Order for Merit to the Fatherland, 4th class, and the title of Pilot-Cosmonaut of the Russian Federation.
Fast facts
- Born: 10 July 1985, Severoonezhsk
- Nationality: Russia
- Education: Baltic State Technical University
- Military rank: Lieutenant
- Spaceflight missions: Expedition 62/63
- Awards: Hero of the Russian Federation
- Professional background: Engineer for RKK Energia and Klimov JSC
Questions readers ask
When was Ivan Vagner selected as a cosmonaut?
He was selected in October 2010.
Which Soyuz mission did Vagner launch on?
He launched on Soyuz MS-16 in April 2020.
Achievements
- Educated at Baltic State Technical University
- Worked as astronaut
