November 06

Nadezhda Kuzhelnaya began her career as a test pilot before being selected for cosmonaut training in the late 1990s. She underwent rigorous preparation for missions to Mir and the International Space Station. Though she did not fly in space due to program changes, she completed advanced training alongside veteran cosmonauts. After leaving the space program, Kuzhelnaya returned to civilian aviation and served as a pilot for various airlines. Her pioneering efforts remain an inspiration for women in aerospace and aviation. She continues to advocate for STEM education and space exploration in Russia.