ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot makes history on Crew-12 mission to ISS

In a landmark moment for the European Space Agency (ESA), astronaut Sophie Adenot has officially embarked on her journey to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Crew-12 mission. The mission was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on February 13, 2026, at 10:15 GMT.

Adenot is making history as she represents the first class of ESA astronauts often referred to as the “Hoppers.” Serving as a mission specialist, she will join a diverse team composed of NASA’s Jessica Meir, who is serving as the commander, and Jack Hathaway, who is the pilot for this mission. Additionally, Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrei Fedyaev will also be onboard as a mission specialist.

Affectionately naming her mission εpsilon, Adenot will spend up to nine months aboard the ISS, where her responsibilities will include participating in various scientific experiments spearheaded by European researchers, engaging in medical studies, assisting with Earth observation efforts, and aiding in the overall maintenance and operations of the space station. This mission signifies a significant step not only for Adenot but also for broader European contributions to space exploration.

As excitement builds around the new potential of human spaceflight, the mission promises to improve our understanding of life in orbit, paving the way for future explorations.