Space Shuttle mission STS-122 carried Léopold Eyharts to the International Space Station on 7 February 2008, marking a pivotal moment in his career as a European Space Agency astronaut. A career test pilot and brigadier general in the French Air Force, his professional trajectory reflects the convergence of military aviation and international orbital research initiatives.
Early Education and Military Training
Born on 28 April 1957 in Biarritz, France, Eyharts began his academic foundation at Lycée Louis-Barthou. He later attended the School of the Air and Space in Salon-de-Provence, graduating as an engineer in 1979. His technical expertise expanded significantly in 1988 when he completed the curriculum at the École du personnel navigant d'essais et de réception in Istres, qualifying as a test pilot.
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Eyharts entered space exploration through CNES in 1990 before joining the European Space Agency in 1998. During his tenure, he completed two separate space missions. His 2008 expedition involved joining the crew of the International Space Station as part of the Expedition 16 mission. He focused specifically on the installation and configuration of the Columbus European laboratory module before returning to Earth on mission STS-123 in March 2008.
Professional Honors and Distinctions
Throughout his service, Eyharts has received numerous awards recognizing his contributions to aerospace and international cooperation. His French honors include being named an Officer and a Knight of the Legion of Honour, alongside his status as a Knight of the National Order of Merit. International recognition includes the Order of Courage, the Order of Friendship, the Dostyk Order of grade II, and the Medal for Merit in Space Exploration, awarded in 2011.
Fast facts
- Born: 28 April 1957, Biarritz, France
- Current Rank: Brigadier General
- Primary Employer: European Space Agency (1998)
- Test Pilot Training: Istres, 1988
- Space Missions: Mir expedition, International Space Station expedition
- Notable Mission: STS-122
- Language: French
Questions readers ask
What is Léopold Eyharts' professional background?
He is a brigadier general in the French Air Force, an engineer, and a test pilot who transitioned into space exploration with CNES and the European Space Agency.
What was his primary objective during the 2008 International Space Station mission?
He participated in the installation and configuration of the Columbus European laboratory module.
Achievements
- Officer of the Legion of Honour
- Knight of the National Order of Merit
- Knight of the Legion of Honour
- Affiliated with CNES and European Space Agency
- Educated at School of the Air and Space and Lycée Louis-Barthou
- Worked as astronaut, aircraft pilot and test pilot
