Paolo Nespoli launched aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery on 23 October 2007, serving as a mission specialist during STS-120. This mission marked his first entry into space and represented a pivotal point in his transition from a military background to an active role as an engineer and astronaut for the European Space Agency.
Military Foundation and Education
Born in Milan in 1957, Nespoli joined the Italian Army in 1977. His military career included service as a master parachutist, parachute instructor, and jump master, eventually operating with the 9th Paratroopers Assault Regiment. Academically, he earned a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering in 1988 and a master's degree in aeronautics and astronautics in 1989 from the Polytechnic University in New York.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Spaceflight Missions
Selected by the Italian Space Agency in 1998, Nespoli trained at the Johnson Space Center before his three primary orbital missions. Following STS-120, he served as a flight engineer for Expedition 26/27 aboard the International Space Station, departing on the Soyuz TMA-20 in December 2010. His final mission, VITA (Vitality, Innovation, Technology, and Ability), commenced in July 2017 via Soyuz MS-05 and lasted 138 days.
Scientific and Educational Contributions
During his missions, Nespoli conducted extensive research, ranging from biology and fluid physics to radiation monitoring and technology demonstrations. He also engaged in significant educational outreach, participating in programs like Mission X: Train Like an Astronaut and the European Astro Pi Challenge. Additionally, his work included filming content for the 2011 documentary First Orbit and contributing cinematography for the National Geographic series One Strange Rock.
Fast facts
- Born: 1957, Milan, Italy
- Military Rank: Major
- Education: New York University Tandon School of Engineering
- Space Missions: STS-120, Expedition 26/27, Expedition 52/53
- Awards: Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic (2007)
- Languages: Italian
- Retirement: 2019
Questions readers ask
What was the purpose of the VITA mission?
The mission, launched in 2017, focused on scientific experimentation and the testing of technologies necessary for life in space, with the acronym standing for Vitality, Innovation, Technology, and Ability.
Which awards has Paolo Nespoli received?
His honors include the NASA Space Flight Medal (2007), Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic (2007), Knight of the Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity (2009), and the America Award (2015).
Achievements
- Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic — 2007
- Knight of the Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity
- Educated at New York University Tandon School of Engineering, New York University and University of Florence
- Worked as astronaut, engineer and amateur radio operator
