Reacción a "Reactions: ESA selects two new Spanish astronauts"

It has been really exciting to follow the selection process of the new ESA astronauts from the beginning, and even more so from the inside, performing some of the selection tests. During the process in Germany I met great candidates from different countries and, later, many of the Spaniards selected for the tests had the good idea of keeping in touch, celebrating the successes of those who continued to endure in the adventure of becoming astronauts. 

It has been almost a year of constant encouragement from one and all. We know how difficult it is, not only to participate in the process or to pass each of the tests, but also to be selected. That is why I am especially happy to have seen the smiles on Pablo and Sara's faces today. They deserve all our congratulations and best wishes, it was amazing to see it live, something I will remember for the rest of my life. 

For all of us who work in Planetary Science it is even more gratifying to see how future astronauts (Pablo, Sara, and the rest of those selected for 2022) could be the next human beings to visit the Moon or Mars. In addition, I am happy to confirm the role of our new astronauts, promoted by the increase of Spain's contribution to ESA by the Ministry of Science; as well as to see more women selected as astronauts, something that ESA tried to promote from the beginning. 

The development of new space missions with human crew will mean new avenues of exploration beyond robotic work. I look forward to seeing their evolution and trajectory over the coming years.