Tim Peake Becomes a Space Ambassador

The UK Space Agency has announced that Tim Peake is stepping down as an active European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut and taking on an ambassadorial role for space.

Working closely with the UK Space Agency and ESA, Tim’s new role will be to use the inspirational power of space and his own journey to encourage more young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

“Tim Peake is an incredible ambassador for the UK space sector and has played a leading role over the past decade.

Not only has he carried out important scientific work, during his historic Principia mission to the International Space Station and while on Earth, but he has inspired millions with his passion for space and the opportunities it offers.

Tim has played a huge role in promoting STEM education and space careers, and has shone a light on the hundreds of roles involved in getting an astronaut into space, and across the wider space sector. It’s thanks to Tim and those who have worked with him that we can look forward to a new generation of skilled scientists, engineers, lawyers, designers and more, who will help the UK space sector soar to new heights.”

“Being an ESA astronaut has been the most extraordinary experience. I have had the privilege of working with an exceptional team of dedicated individuals during the past thirteen years with the Agency, which has been incredibly exciting and rewarding. By assuming the role of an ambassador for human spaceflight, I shall continue to support ESA and the UK Space Agency, with a focus on educational outreach, and I look forward to the many exciting opportunities ahead.”

When Tim was selected as an ESA astronaut in May 2009, he became the UK’s second astronaut after Helen