Cosmonaut Ivan Vagner became the first in the world to defend his master's thesis from the ISS, while in space flight at an altitude of 400 kilometers above the Earth. This event became significant for the history of the International Space Station, as well as for science and higher education.
RANEPA Rector Alexei Komissarov said that the defense took place in a unique format – Vagner presented his scientific work via video link from orbit. The examination commission was located at the Mission Control Center in Korolev, Moscow Region, and rated his dissertation as "excellent."
Roscosmos shared footage from the Mission Control Center in Korolev - it shows the cosmonaut presenting his scientific work to the commission.
The cosmonaut studied for a master's degree in "State and Municipal Administration". His graduation work is devoted to improving the efficiency of public sector organizations through improving personnel selection. In the study, he also analyzed the work of the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center, proposing specific measures to improve the selection of candidates for the cosmonaut corps.
One of Vagner's proposals is to launch a program to popularize the activities of cosmonauts and the achievements of the space industry in Russian regions. It includes educational, exhibition, physical culture and sports, and medical modules. According to Vagner's scientific advisor Vyacheslav Kartukhin, the cosmonaut's work is distinguished by a creative approach and is based on his practical interaction with government bodies.
Ivan Vagner is the 123rd cosmonaut of Russia and the 566th cosmonaut of the world. He is currently on his second orbital mission as part of the 72nd expedition. He has already spent 151 days on board the ISS.
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