1940day.year
Georgi Ivanov
Bulgarian military officer, cosmonaut and politician
Bulgarian military officer
cosmonaut and politician
Bulgarian Air Force officer who became the first Bulgarian cosmonaut aboard Soyuz 33 and later served in government.
Georgi Ivanov was born in 1940 and graduated from the Bulgarian Air Force Academy as a pilot. In 1979, he flew aboard Soyuz 33 as part of the Soviet Intercosmos program, becoming the first Bulgarian in space. His mission marked a milestone in Bulgaria's participation in space exploration. After returning to Earth, he transitioned into politics, serving as a member of Parliament and deputy prime minister. Ivanov later headed the Bulgarian Space Agency, advocating for the country's continued role in international space efforts. His achievements bridged military service, exploration, and public leadership.
Georgi Ivanov