On February 14th, 2026, the SpaceX Dragon Freedom capsule carrying ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrei Fedyaev docked with the International Space Station (ISS), marking the official start of ESA’s εpsilon mission. This is Sophie Adenot’s first long-duration assignment aboard the Station. Scheduled to last up to nine months, εpsilon is set to become ESA’s longest astronaut mission to date, with Sophie conducting a wide array of scientific experiments, medical research, and supporting operations across the European Columbus and Japanese Kibo modules.
©ESA - S. Corvaja
Expertise in Training and Operations
A successful space mission depends not only on technology and scientific objectives but also on expert support and rigorous preparation Telespazio played a vital role in readying the Crew-12 team for the εpsilon mission. Our colleagues at the European Astronaut Centre (EAC) were closely involved in preparing Sophie Adenot for essential experiments, including heat and fluid transfer (HTH2) as well as the Metal 3D Printer, ensuring she could perform her tasks confidently aboard the ISS.
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Matthew Day and his team developed crew training videos and guides for apps used on the ISS, resources that will also support astronauts in upcoming Artemis II lunar missions. Clara Moriceau and her team provided training on the EchoFinder 2 tool, empowering astronauts to perform self-administered ultrasound scans with the help of artificial intelligence and augmented reality, especially when remote guidance from Earth is not possible. Furthermore, under Frank Salmen's instruction for the PK-4 experiment enabled research on plasma crystals and fluid dynamics, expanding scientific knowledge and capabilities in microgravity. These combined efforts allow astronauts not only to deliver meaningful scientific research, but also to manage daily operational challenges effectively strengthening the overall progress of human spaceflight.
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Beyond Professional Preparation
Beyond technical and professional preparation, personal care is essential for mission success. In this regard, one of our colleagues, Maria Grulich works as the primary assistant to the astronaut. As primary astronaut assistant, our colleague’s dedication ensures the mission's success and the astronaut's and their family's well-being throughout the entire process. Maria handles various essential tasks, such as arranging crew preference food and organising software, apps, movies, and music for the mission. Her support extends to the astronaut’s family during the launch phase, providing guidance and assistance to help them feel involved and supported. These moments create opportunities for colleagues to personally wish the astronaut well and, at times, surprise them with special songs, dances, banners, or dress codes. Every thoughtful detail, no matter how small, plays a part in fostering a positive environment and contributes to the overall success of the mission.
With the εpsilon Mission now officially underway, Telespazio is proud to support ESA’s εpsilon mission, offering the expertise and assistance that help astronauts achieve excellence in science, daily operations, and personal well-being. As space exploration moves forward, we remain committed to contributing to the achievements of humanity beyond Earth.
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