The European Space Agency (ESA) has recently announced its new career astronauts, among which are two prominent Spaniards: Sara Garcia Alonso and Pablo Alvarez Fernandez. These young astronauts from León have managed to make their dream of exploring space come true. Through their dedication, academic training, and sports skills, Pablo and Sara have become inspiring role models for future generations.
In this article we will tell you in detail what the professional career of these two young Spanish scientists has been until they reached their "space dream". Meet the Spanish astronauts selected by ESA: Sara García and Pablo Álvarez.
Sara García Alonso: a committed biotechnologist and lover of challenges
Sara García Alonso, born in 1989 in León, is a leading biotechnologist and cancer researcher. Her passion for science and research led her to obtain a degree in Biotechnology at the University of León and a PhD in Molecular Biology at the University of Salamanca, specializing in the study of cancer and translational medicine.
Although she did not initially consider a career in space, by learning more about astronaut life and the skills required, Sara realized that her career path was a perfect fit for the challenging world of space exploration. Her valuable experience in research laboratories, including her current work in the National Center for Oncology Research (CNIO), where she leads a team dedicated to the discovery of new drugs to combat lung and pancreatic cancer, makes her a scientist with a multidisciplinary approach and an analytical mind.
Beyond her passion for science, Sara is a person who is constantly looking for new challenges. In his free time, he immerses himself in various sports activities, from yoga and crossfit to Krav Magá, bungee jumping and skydiving.These extreme sports not only test their physical endurance but also fuel their adventurous spirit and their drive to excel. In this sense, an example of the careers of women scientists who have achieved great milestones is Rocio L. Camera, who has left a notable mark.
Pablo Álvarez Fernández: an aeronautical engineer passionate about space
Pablo Álvarez Fernández, born in 1988 in León, is an aeronautical engineer who has left his mark on the aerospace industry. From an early age, Pablo had a fascination with space and dreamed of becoming an astronaut. After completing his studies in aeronautical engineering in León, he embarked on a professional career that led him to work at important projects for Airbus, contributing to the development of aircraft such as the Airbus A330 and A350.
In addition to his outstanding professional career, Pablo is a passionate athlete. His love for the sport drives him to constantly push his physical and mental limits. He is a running enthusiast and has completed several marathons and triathlons. He also delights in biking and hiking in the mountains., taking every opportunity to connect with nature and challenge its resilience. Her dedication to sport mirrors that of other women in science who have overcome obstacles, such as , who has inspired many to follow their dreams.
Spanish astronauts and their impact on space exploration
The selection of Sara García and Pablo Álvarez as ESA astronauts represents a significant achievement both for them and for Spain. These young talents are ready to carry out space missions and contribute to important scientific projects and research. Their dedication and passion for space are inspiring examples for future generations, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and never doubt what they can achieve.
Space exploration is a multidisciplinary and challenging field that requires a unique combination of scientific knowledge, technical skills, and physical and mental aptitudes. Astronauts become ambassadors for humanity in space, carrying with them human curiosity and the desire to expand our knowledge of the universe. The story of these astronauts Spanish astronauts selected by ESA It is a testament that the effort is really worth it.
Pedro Duque proudly passes the flag to the young astronauts.
The new Spanish astronauts from the European Space Agency had the opportunity to talk with Pedro Duque, former Minister of Science and Innovation, who proudly handed them the flag that he has carried with him for the last 30 years. In addition, he gave them valuable advice to face their new life as astronauts.
Hours earlier, Pedro Duque used Twitter to congratulate Sara García and Pablo Álvarez, saying:
"In particular, I am honored to pass the baton to Sara and Pablo as Spanish representatives in the astronaut corps"; "The effort of Spain, its professionals, authorities and companies for many years is recognized".
Pedro Duque
Pedro Duque, together with the Spanish-American Miguel López-Alegría from NASA, has been one of the two astronauts that Spain has had so far. He was selected to join the ESA Astronaut Corps in 1992 and during his career he made two trips into space. The first was in 1998 aboard the shuttle Discovery, and then in 2003, where he carried out the Cervantes mission for ten days on the International Space Station.
The meeting between the new astronauts and Pedro Duque represents a significant moment, since it symbolizes the continuity of Spanish participation in space exploration. The transmission of the flag by Duque is a gesture loaded with symbolism, as it represents the passion, effort and commitment of all those who have contributed to the development of the space industry in Spain.
Pedro Duque's legacy as an astronaut and his experience in space are an inspiration to new astronauts. His track record shows that dreams can come true through hard work, dedication and determination. The opportunity to receive advice and guidance from someone with their experience is invaluable for Sara García and Pablo Álvarez, who now have the responsibility of representing Spain in space.
Chasing dreams is realistic
We live in a society dominated by double standards: on the one hand, a toxic positive mindset is promoted, and on the other, the devastating message that pursuing dreams is unrealistic. Any child who dreams of being an astronaut will often receive comments like, “What you have to do is have a normal job…”. Verbal emissions short wings. Fortunately, here we have the example of those who continued to dream as adults and managed to make it come true: the two Spanish astronauts selected by ESA, Sara García and Pablo Álvarez.
Because pursuing dreams is realistic, what isn't is settling for a standard life without standing out, just because some people decide that looking further is naive, coincidentally those who don't dare to leave the famous "comfort zone" (even though they later promote it).
"Be realistic" is a paralyzing message and this is how Will Smith showed us in one of his many interviews:
“Being realistic is the most commonly traveled road to mediocrity. Why be realistic? What's the point of being realistic?
Will Smith
Sara García and Pablo Álvarez have shown that dreams can come true through effort, dedication and perseverance. Their selection as members of the ESA astronaut team is a testament to their commitment to space exploration and their ability to rise to challenges. Like other examples of their achievements, their story will inspire many.
As the future approaches, we are excited to think about the opportunities that will open up for Sara, Pablo and all the astronauts who continue to push the boundaries of the unknown. Your valuable contribution to science and space exploration will surely inspire future generations to pursue their own dreams and contribute their creativity and talents to the advancement of humanity in space.
"If you believe in yourself, not even the sky will be your limit"