UK astronaut set for 2015 launch
Major Tim Peake has been confirmed as the first official British astronaut to live and work in space. The 41-year-old will fly to the International Space Station in November 2015.
Major Tim Peake has been confirmed as the first official British astronaut to live and work in space. The 41-year-old will fly to the International Space Station in November 2015.
Britain's first official astronaut Major Tim Peake said going to space would be "a real privilege" and to be assigned to that mission felt like a "real high point" in his aviation career.
It really is a true privilege to be assigned to a long duration mission, it feels like a real high point in a long career in aviation.
I am really grateful to my family, friends and professional colleagues who are supporting me as I prepare for the challenge that lies ahead.
The mission to the International Space Station is going to be a wonderful opportunity, not just for Europe and European science but the UK as well.
Major Tim Peake will be the first British astronaut in space for 20 years - but has no plans to sing any Bowie songs from outer space.
As Tim Peake prepares to become the first official Brit in space, here are other British-born astronauts who have experienced the thrill.