In an interview with Poland’s PAP news agency published on Saturday, ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher revealed that he still needs to discuss the Polish astronaut’s future with the authorities in Warsaw.
Uznański-Wiśniewski returned to Poland on Thursday after completing the Axiom 4/Ignis tech-science mission aboard the International Space Station.
In the interview, Aschbacher admitted that he has the final say regarding appointments to the European Astronaut Corps, but for now, he cannot reveal what decision he will make regarding the Polish astronaut.
“This discussion takes time and is influenced by many factors. All I can say is that he is a good, exceptionally strong candidate,” Aschbacher said.
Queried about the role, Uznański-Wiśniewski, declared that he’s ready to join the corps if called.
Aschbacher also praised Poland for significant advancements in space technology over the past decade.
“I would like to help Poland move from an early stage to the mastery phase, and Sławosz may play a pivotal role in achieving this goal”, he was quoted as saying.
Looking ahead, Aschbacher expressed hope for Europe’s own crewed spaceflights.
“That requires political decisions, though. Strong politicians with a clear vision are needed for that”, he noted.
“I hope that Poland rises to the challenge and become a European leader and champion in the field of space”, Aschbacher added.
(mo)
Source: PAP