# Paolo Nespoli

> Italian astronaut

**Wikidata**: [Q17177](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q17177)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paolo_Nespoli)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/paolo-nespoli

## Summary
Paolo Nespoli is an Italian astronaut, engineer, and former military paratrooper known for his contributions to space exploration. Born on April 6, 1957, he has participated in three Space Shuttle missions and a long-duration mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), becoming the first Italian astronaut to achieve this milestone.

## Biography
- **Born:** April 6, 1957
- **Nationality:** Italian
- **Education:** Master's degree in aerospace engineering from the Polytechnic University of Milan; attended the University of Houston for a master's in aeronautics and astronautics.
- **Known for:** Being the first Italian astronaut to complete a long-duration mission on the ISS.
- **Employer(s):** Italian Air Force, European Space Agency (ESA), NASA.
- **Field(s):** Aerospace engineering, astronautics, space exploration.

## Contributions
- **Space Missions:** 
  - **STS-92 (2000):** Contributed to the assembly of the ISS as a mission specialist.
  - **Expedition 14/15 (2007):** Spent 175 days aboard the ISS, conducting scientific experiments and maintenance tasks.
  - **STS-134 (2011):** Participated in the final mission of the Space Shuttle Endeavour, delivering critical components to the ISS.
- **Technical Expertise:** Utilized his engineering background to support mission operations and develop training protocols for astronauts.

## FAQs
**What are Paolo Nespoli's most notable space missions?**  
Nespoli participated in three Space Shuttle missions (STS-92, STS-134) and a long-duration ISS mission (Expedition 14/15), contributing to ISS assembly and scientific research.

**Where did Paolo Nespoli receive his education?**  
He earned a master's degree in aerospace engineering from the Polytechnic University of Milan and studied aeronautics and astronautics at the University of Houston.

**What roles has Paolo Nespoli held outside of space missions?**  
Before becoming an astronaut, Nespoli served as a paratrooper in the Italian Air Force and worked as an engineer for the European Space Agency.

**What awards has Paolo Nespoli received?**  
He was awarded the NASA Space Flight Medal and honored by the Italian government for his contributions to space exploration.

## Why They Matter
Paolo Nespoli's career has significantly advanced international space collaboration, particularly through his work on the ISS. His engineering expertise and mission contributions have enhanced the operational capabilities of space agencies worldwide. As a pioneering Italian astronaut, he has inspired future generations of scientists and engineers in Italy and globally.

## Notable For
- First Italian astronaut to complete a long-duration ISS mission.
- Recipient of the NASA Space Flight Medal.
- Veteran of three Space Shuttle missions and one ISS expedition.
- Held leadership roles in astronaut training and mission operations.
- Recognized for his technical contributions to aerospace engineering and space exploration.

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Paolo Angelo Nespoli was born on April 6, 1957, in Cavagna, Italy. He developed an early interest in aviation and engineering, leading him to pursue a master's degree in aerospace engineering at the Polytechnic University of Milan. Nespoli furthered his education at the University of Houston, where he studied aeronautics and astronautics.

### Military and Engineering Career
Before joining the space program, Nespoli served as a paratrooper in the Italian Air Force. He transitioned to engineering roles, working for the European Space Agency (ESA) and later joining NASA's Astronaut Candidate School in 1998.

### Space Missions and Achievements
- **STS-92 (2000):** Nespoli's first mission involved assembling the ISS, where he operated the robotic arm and supported critical infrastructure deployment.
- **Expedition 14/15 (2007):** As a flight engineer, he spent 175 days on the ISS, conducting over 200 scientific experiments and performing maintenance tasks.
- **STS-134 (2011):** Aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour, Nespoli delivered the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer to the ISS, a key tool for particle physics research.

### Technical and Leadership Roles
Nespoli contributed to astronaut training programs, leveraging his engineering background to enhance mission preparedness. He also supported the development of ISS systems, ensuring the station's functionality for long-term habitation.

### Legacy and Influence
Nespoli's missions and technical work have strengthened Italy's role in international space endeavors. His achievements have paved the way for future Italian astronauts and underscored the importance of collaborative space exploration. The asteroid 12405 Nespoli was named in his honor, recognizing his contributions to science and exploration.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Human_Spaceflight/Astronauts/Paolo_Nespoli)
2. Czech National Authority Database
3. [Source](http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/04/science/space/04shuttle.html)
4. [Source](http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-12184790)
5. [Dettaglio decorato. Presidency of the Italian Republic](http://www.quirinale.it/elementi/DettaglioOnorificenze.aspx?decorato=241463)
6. Virtual International Authority File
7. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
8. BBC Things