Two space flights spanning from 1998 to 2005 marked the career of Salizhan Sharipov, who transitioned from an Air Force pilot to a test cosmonaut. Born in 1964 in Özgön, he served as a mission specialist for NASA and a flight engineer for the Russian space program, accumulating over 10 hours of spacewalk activity during his tenure.
Early Career and Training
Sharipov began his aviation career following his 1987 graduation from the Soviet Air Force Pilot School. He spent his early years as a pilot-instructor, logging over 950 hours of flight time in MiG-21 and L-39 aircraft while teaching eight cadets. He transitioned to the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in 1990, eventually qualifying as a test cosmonaut in 1992 and completing extensive training for Mir spaceflights.
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In January 1998, Sharipov served as a mission specialist aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour for STS-89. This mission functioned as the eighth docking between the Shuttle and the Mir station. During the 8-day flight, his crew transferred more than 8,000 pounds of logistical hardware and scientific equipment, facilitating the replacement of U.S. astronauts stationed on the orbiting facility.
Expedition 10 and Scientific Research
In October 2004, Sharipov launched from the Baikonour cosmodrome aboard Soyuz TMA-5 to join Expedition 10 on the International Space Station. His 192-day mission focused on station maintenance and scientific experimentation. He conducted research into low-temperature synthesis and biotechnology, including stem cell experiments related to HIV/AIDS treatment, before returning to Earth in April 2005.
Extravehicular Activity
Sharipov performed two spacewalks during his time at the International Space Station. In January 2005, he worked with Leroy Chiao to install a robot test bed and external equipment. In March 2005, the duo completed the installation of navigation antennas for the ATV resupply spacecraft and deployed a nanosatellite experiment from the Pirs docking compartment, totaling 10 hours and 34 minutes of activity outside the station.
Fast facts
- Born: 1964, Özgön
- Military Rank: Colonel
- Education: Gubkin University
- Total Space Flight Time: 192 days
- Career Spacewalks: 2
- Selected for Training: 1990
- Retired: 18 July 2008
Questions readers ask
What scientific experiments did Sharipov conduct in space?
He participated in low-temperature synthesis projects, stem cell research, and Earth ecology studies.
Which spacecraft did he pilot during his career?
He flew MiG-21 and L-39 aircraft, Space Shuttle Endeavour, and the Soyuz TMA-5.
Achievements
- Educated at Gubkin University
- Worked as aircraft pilot, astronaut and engineer
