Pesquet to become first French commander of International Space Station.
18/10/2021
![](https://164feb6045.clvaw-cdnwnd.com/17045c0d8ed774fa670d17cbdb625ce4/200000208-da2c5da2c7/thomas-pesquet-esa-nasa.jpg?ph=164feb6045)
Thomas Pesquet, 43 years old, is to become the first French astronaut to serve as commander of the International Space Station - a decision he tells RFI that is testament to the growing role of France, and Europe, in human space flight.