Yuri Georgiyevich Shargin launched into space on October 14, 2004, aboard the Soyuz TMA-5 mission. As a representative of the Russian Space Forces, he became the first cosmonaut from that specific military branch to complete a spaceflight. His journey to the International Space Station spanned nearly ten days, concluding with his return to Earth on the Soyuz TMA-4 vessel.
Military and Educational Background
Born in 1960 in Engels, Shargin pursued a career path rooted in aerospace engineering and military service. His formal education included studies at the Mozhaysky Air Force Academy in Leningrad, from which he graduated in 1982. He later attended the Military Academy of the Strategic Missile Forces between 1991 and 1995. Holding the rank of colonel within the Russian Space Forces, he served as a military flight engineer.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Cosmonaut Career
The selection of Shargin as a cosmonaut occurred on February 9, 1996. Following years of preparation, he was assigned to the Soyuz TMA-5 flight in 2004. During his mission, his presence prompted public inquiry regarding the involvement of military personnel in orbital operations, though mission leadership maintained that the station activities were not military in nature. He concluded his active tenure in the cosmonaut corps in August 2008.
Awards and Recognition
The Russian state has acknowledged Shargin's service through several decorations. Among these are the title of Hero of the Russian Federation and the Pilot-Cosmonaut of the Russian Federation awarded in 2005. His military service is further represented by the Order of Honour, the Medal for Merit in Space Exploration, the Defence Ministry's 200-year medal, and the Jubilee Medal 70 Years of the Armed Forces of the USSR. He also received the Medal for Impeccable Service in the third class.
Fast facts
- Born: 1960, Engels, Russia
- Military Rank: Colonel
- Space Mission: Soyuz TMA-5
- Cosmonaut Selection Date: 9 February 1996
- Retirement from Cosmonaut Corps: August 2008
- Education: Mozhaysky Air Force Academy
Questions readers ask
Was Yuri Shargin a military officer?
Yes, he held the rank of colonel in the Russian Space Forces and served as a military flight engineer.
Which space mission did he fly?
He served as the flight engineer on the Soyuz TMA-5 mission, which launched in October 2004.
Achievements
- Educated at Mozhaysky Air Force Academy and Military Academy of the Strategic Missile Forces
- Worked as engineer, astronaut and military flight engineer
.jpg)