The astronaut will dedicate his time to outreach and education
Tim Peake, the UK’s first ESA astronaut, has announced he is stepping down from active duties to take on a new role as an ambassador for ESA activities and promoting science careers to young people.
“Being an ESA astronaut has been the most extraordinary experience,” says Tim. “I have had the privilege of working with an exceptional team of dedicated individuals during the past 13 years with the agency, which has been incredibly exciting and rewarding.”
Peake was part of ESA’s 2009 astronaut class, spending six months on board the International Space Station in 2015 and 2016, during which more than two million children engaged in educational programmes linked to his Principia mission. He took a sabbatical from ESA in October 2019 to focus on outreach while remaining eligible for a future flight. However, after two years Peake has decided to take on his educational role permanently. www.esa.int