European Astronaut Centre

The European Astronaut Centre (EAC), located in Cologne, Germany, is the main training and operational hub for European astronauts. Operated by the European Space Agency (ESA), it prepares astronauts for space missions through rigorous training in areas like spacecraft systems, science experiments, and health management. The centre also manages crew selection, mission planning, and ongoing support for astronauts before, during, and after their missions. Its goal is to ensure European astronauts are well-prepared for their roles in space exploration and research, supporting Europe's contribution to international space missions and advancing scientific knowledge.