A selection process involving over 22,500 candidates resulted in Pablo Álvarez Fernández becoming a full astronaut for the European Space Agency in 2022. Based in Spain and educated in aeronautical engineering, he reached professional certification in April 2024 following a rigorous year of training held in Cologne, marking a significant milestone for his home nation.
Early Education and Engineering Background
Born in León in 1988, he pursued technical studies early in his career. In 2009, he completed his degree in aeronautical engineering at the University of León. He continued his academic path by earning a master's degree in aerospace engineering from the Warsaw University of Technology in 2011. This educational foundation prepared him for a multifaceted role in the aerospace industry.
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From 2011 until 2017, he operated as a structural engineer across Spain, the United Kingdom, and France. His work contributed to major aviation programs, including the A350, A380, Boeing 777, and the COMAC C919. These positions at Airbus and Safran required technical precision and integration within large-scale multinational projects.
The ExoMars Project
Between 2017 and 2020, his focus shifted to mechanical architecture for the Rosalind Franklin rover, part of the ExoMars mission. Based at Airbus Defence and Space in the United Kingdom, he oversaw the development and structural design of the vehicle. His responsibilities included the installation of scientific instruments, integration into the landing platform, and serving as a test director. Additionally, he worked on seals intended to prevent biological contamination of the rover.
Selection and Graduation
In 2020, he transitioned to the role of project manager at Airbus Spain. His selection by the European Space Agency in November 2022 placed him among the 2022 astronaut group alongside Sara García Alonso. Following a year of intensive training in Cologne, he graduated on 22 April 2024. He holds the distinction of being the first Spanish astronaut to graduate in 31 years, following Pedro Duque in 1993.
Fast facts
- Born: 1988, León, Spain
- Citizenship: Spain
- Graduation: 22 April 2024, Cologne
- Previous employer: Airbus and Safran
- Notable project: ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover
- ESA selection: 2022 Astronaut group
Questions readers ask
Which major aviation projects did he work on before becoming an astronaut?
He contributed to the A350, A380, Boeing 777, and COMAC C919 programs.
What was his specific responsibility for the ExoMars rover?
He served as a mechanical architect, overseeing structure design, instrument installation, and contamination-prevention seals.
Achievements
- Recorded as aerospace engineer and astronaut
