Khabarovsk served as the birthplace for Pyotr Valerievich Dubrov, who would later transition from a technical career in software engineering to a long-duration presence in low Earth orbit. Selected as a candidate by Roscosmos in 2012, he spent nearly an entire year aboard the International Space Station, marking a transition from regional engineering roles to global space operations.
Academic and Professional Origins
Born on 30 January 1978, Dubrov attended secondary school No. 13 before enrolling at the Khabarovsk State Technical University. He completed his degree in Software for Computer Engineering and Automated Systems in 1999. His early professional life was spent in the private sector, where he occupied the position of senior software engineer at CBOSS Development International LLC.
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In October 2012, the Russian space agency Roscosmos identified Dubrov as one of eight candidates for its cosmonaut corps. Training commenced at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center shortly thereafter. His preparation included rigorous winter survival drills in February 2013, designed to simulate emergency landing scenarios where ground rescue teams might be delayed. He officially concluded his training program on 15 July 2014.
Space Station Operations
Dubrov launched into orbit in April 2021 aboard the Soyuz MS-18 spacecraft. During his tenure on the International Space Station, he participated in Expedition 64, 65, and 66. He also supported the production of the feature film The Challenge, assisting with the project alongside NASA astronaut Mark Vande Hei. Following the conclusion of his mission, he returned to Earth on 30 March 2022, accumulating 355 days in space.
Formal Recognition
The Russian state has acknowledged his contributions to the national space program through several titles and honors. On 12 April 2023, he received the title of Hero of the Russian Federation. Furthermore, his career has been decorated with the Pilot-Cosmonaut of the Russian Federation designation and the Gagarin medal.
Fast facts
- Born: 30 January 1978, Khabarovsk
- Citizenship: Russia
- Space Agency: Roscosmos
- Selection Year: 2012
- Total Time in Space: 355 days
- Return Date: 30 March 2022
- Title: Hero of the Russian Federation
- Education: Khabarovsk State Technical University
Questions readers ask
What was Pyotr Dubrov's professional background before becoming a cosmonaut?
He worked as a senior software engineer at CBOSS Development International LLC after graduating with a degree in software engineering.
Which spacecraft did Dubrov use to return to Earth?
He returned on 30 March 2022 aboard the Soyuz MS-19 spacecraft.
Achievements
- Worked as astronaut and engineer
