Russian cosmonaut Kirill Peskov embarked on his historic mission to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft on March 15, 2025, at 02:03 Moscow time. Launched from site 39A of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Peskov's flight marks another significant step for international cooperation in space exploration.
This launch followed the postponement of the mission initially scheduled for March 13, due to issues with the spacecraft's hydraulic system. Kirill Peskov, hailing from the Krasnoyarsk region, is not only the first astronaut from this area to travel to space but also the proud graduate of Ulyanovsk Higher Civil Aviation School, where his fascination with space began.
During the launch, Peskov expressed heartfelt gratitude to his former school and college, stating, "Thank you very much for the knowledge and life experience I gained within these walls to accomplish this flight. Thanks to School No. 14 of Nazarovo and the Ulyanovsk Higher Civil Aviation School. Thank you to my family for their support." His words encapsulate the dreams of many who aspire to reach for the stars, as he envisioned from his childhood, reading books about space.
Peskov was accompanied by three other crew members on the Crew-10 mission: NASA astronauts Ann McClain and Nicole Ayers, along with Japan’s Takuya Onishi. The launch of the Falcon-9 rocket carrying the Crew Dragon was met with jubilation as it successfully entered the designated orbit and detached from the second stage of the launch vehicle.
The mission is part of collaborative efforts under the agreement signed by Roscosmos and NASA back in July 2022, allowing for cross-flights involving Russian cosmonauts on American spacecraft and American astronauts on Russian Soyuz vehicles. This partnership demonstrates the continued importance of shared endeavors in human spaceflight and scientific cooperation.
After the rocket launch, Peskov’s crew is expected to dock with the Harmony module of the American segment of the ISS on March 16 at 10:30 local time. This connection will allow them to begin their research and maintenance tasks on the Russian segment of the international space station, contributing to experiments and upkeep for various scientific projects.
Peskov’s ascent to this remarkable feat is reminiscent of his long-held dream to explore outer space, which began as he explored NASA during his studies abroad. "I have always loved this job; I still recall it with great warmth," Peskov shared, reflecting on his previous experiences as a pilot of Boeing aircraft before joining the ranks of cosmonauts.
From his early days growing up in the small Siberian town of Nazarovo, Peskov's aspirations went beyond conventional career paths as he pursued the skies. His dedication took him from being the second pilot at Ikar Airlines to fulfilling his dream of becoming part of space exploration history.
The successful launch was broadcast live by Roscosmos and NASA, allowing audiences worldwide to witness this momentous occasion. Peskov's historic flight not only inspires the next generation of cosmonauts and astronauts but also signifies the relentless spirit of human endeavor and collaboration across borders.
Upon arrival at the ISS, Peskov and his team will join the long-term crew of Expedition 72, which includes veterans of space travel. The total duration of their stay is expected to contribute significantly to their scientific goals, underlining the pivotal role of teamwork and international partnerships.
Overall, Kirill Peskov’s story is one of perseverance and dreams realized through hard work and international collaboration. The world watches as he embarks on this groundbreaking voyage, underscoring the power of dreams and the limitless potential of humanity when united by the pursuit of knowledge and discovery.
The crew's successful launch marks another chapter in the history of space exploration, serving as both inspiration and commitment to continuous advancements by countries and organizations committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible. With each mission, as astronauts like Peskov venture beyond our planet, they carry the aspirations of millions, forging pathways for future generations.