Two orbital missions define the space flight career of Sergei Viktorovich Zalyotin, a Russian cosmonaut who transitioned from military aviation to technical operations in low Earth orbit. Selected as a candidate in 1990, he eventually assumed command of the final resident crew to inhabit the Mir space station before participating in a brief mission to the International Space Station.
Early Career and Education
Zalyotin was born in Shchekino on April 21, 1962. He entered the Borisoglebsk Higher Military Pilot School, graduating in 1983 with a diploma as a pilot-engineer. Between 1983 and 1990, he served in various capacities within the Moscow military region, functioning as a pilot, master pilot, and flight leader. Beyond his aviation credentials, he pursued studies in environmental sciences, earning a degree in ecological management and a qualification as an engineer-ecologist in 1994.
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After enlisting in the cosmonaut detachment in 1990, Zalyotin completed a comprehensive course of general space training, receiving his qualification as a test-cosmonaut in 1992. Throughout the 1990s, he engaged in specific preparation for Mir station missions, including serving as a backup crew commander for the PC-26 program. Between 1998 and 1999, he acted as a coordinator for the Cosmonaut Training Center at NASA.
Mir Mission and Space Flight
The PC-28 program provided Zalyotin with his first opportunity for orbital flight. During the mission, he oversaw the reactivation of station systems and executed a single extravehicular activity that lasted 5 hours and 3 minutes. His tenure on the station concluded in June 2000. He later visited the International Space Station aboard Soyuz TMA-1 in 2002.
Military Rank and Political Service
Throughout his service, Zalyotin achieved the military rank of colonel. His contributions to aerospace and defense have been recognized with numerous distinctions, including the title of Hero of the Russian Federation and Pilot-Cosmonaut of the Russian Federation, both awarded in 2000. Further honors include the Order for Merit to the Fatherland, 4th class, and the Order of the Crown. Beyond his career as an astronaut, he has participated in regional politics as a member of the Tula Oblast Duma.
Fast facts
- Born: 21 April 1962, Shchekino, Russia
- Military Rank: Colonel
- Education: Borisoglebsk Higher Aviators School
- Space Missions: Soyuz TM-30, Soyuz TMA-1
- Highest Award: Hero of the Russian Federation
- Political Office: Member of the Tula Oblast Duma
Questions readers ask
What was Sergei Zalyotin's role on the Mir space station?
He served as the commander of the prime crew for the PC-28 program and was responsible for station activation.
Did Zalyotin participate in spacewalks?
Yes, during his 2000 mission to the Mir station, he performed one egress into open space lasting 5 hours and 3 minutes.
Achievements
- Educated at Borisoglebsk Higher Aviators School
- Worked as aircraft pilot, astronaut and military personnel