Yevgeny Tarelkin launched into space in October 2012 as a crew member of the Soyuz TMA-06M mission, marking the start of a six-month tenure aboard the International Space Station. A career pilot and cosmonaut, he remains active in the field of space exploration through specialized ground-based research experiments following his tenure with the Expedition 33 and 34 crews.
Early Career and Education
Born in 1974 in Pervomaysky, Zabaykalsky Krai, Tarelkin pursued a path in aviation and military service. He graduated from the Yeysk Air Force School in 1996 and continued his studies at the Gagarin Air Force Academy, finishing in 1998. He served in the Russian Air Force, eventually attaining the rank of podpolkovnik.
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In 2003, Tarelkin was selected as a member of the TsPK-13 cosmonaut group. This marked his transition from active-duty military aviation to the Russian cosmonaut corps. He completed his basic training requirements by 2005, preparing for the operational demands of long-duration spaceflight.
Spaceflight and Ground Research
His primary spaceflight experience occurred during the Soyuz TMA-06M mission. Upon returning to Earth on March 16, 2013, he shifted his focus toward different aspects of exploration and scientific observation. By 2019, he served as the crew commander for the SIRIUS-19 ground-based isolation experiment, which simulates conditions associated with space travel.
Military and Professional Recognition
Tarelkin has received several decorations for his service and professional contributions. His awards include the title of Hero of the Russian Federation and the distinction of Pilot-Cosmonaut of the Russian Federation, conferred in 2014. He holds a class qualification as an aircraft pilot and has been recognized with the NASA Distinguished Public Service Medal, the NASA Space Flight Medal, the Medal for Courage from the Donetsk People's Republic, and various medals for military valour and distinguished military service.
Fast facts
- Born: 1974, Pervomaysky, Zabaykalsky Krai
- Citizenship: Russia
- Rank: Podpolkovnik
- Selected as Cosmonaut: 2003
- Spaceflight: Soyuz TMA-06M
- Award: Hero of the Russian Federation
- Experiment: SIRIUS-19
Questions readers ask
How long was Yevgeny Tarelkin in space?
He spent six months aboard the International Space Station as part of the Expedition 33 and 34 crews.
What ground-based experiment did he lead?
In 2019, he served as the crew commander for the SIRIUS-19 isolation study.
Achievements
- Worked as explorer, astronaut and aircraft pilot
