On June 4, 2025, a delegation of cosmonauts and representatives from the Yu.A. Gagarin Research and Test Cosmonaut Training Center (Gagarin CPC) visited the Pushchino Radio Astronomy Observatory (PRAO) of the Astro Space Center of the Lebedev Physical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ASC LPI). This visit marked another step in establishing a strong tradition of holding scientific and educational events for cosmonauts at PRAO ASC LPI.
The program was rich and focused on expanding the participants' scientific knowledge. The cosmonauts attended two lectures: Konstantin Postnov, Director of the Sternberg Astronomical Institute (GAISH) of Moscow State University, discussed modern challenges in astrophysics, while Tatiana Larchenkova, Head of the Department of Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology at ASC FIAN, presented an overview of current astrophysical projects being implemented at ASC LPI.
Following the lectures, the delegation explored the instruments of the Pushchino Radio Astronomy Observatory. The cosmonauts examined the radio telescopes, including the renowned DKR-1000 and RT-22, and learned about their contributions to the study of pulsars, quasars, and other astrophysical objects. Special attention was drawn to a visit to the production facility for high-precision panels of the Millimetron space observatory primary mirror. Participants observed the development and manufacturing of components for future space missions. The Millimetron project, a space observatory for millimeter and far-infrared wavelengths with a 10-meter cryogenic telescope, exemplifies the application of cutting-edge technologies in astrophysics.
The delegation included cosmonauts, among them Heroes of Russia Ivan Vagner and Nikolai Chub, as well as cosmonaut candidates from the latest selection: Anastasia Burchuladze, Elchin Vakhidov, Vladimir Vorozhko, and Alexander Zherebtsov.
Such events not only introduce cosmonauts to the latest advancements in astrophysics but also foster stronger collaboration between the scientific community and the space industry. They inspire a new generation of researchers and highlight the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to space exploration. PRAO ASC LPI continues to develop its scientific and educational programs, with such visits becoming a key component.
Back
