Dr. Thomas Reiter

Dr. Thomas Reiter brings exceptional expertise from his career as a European astronaut and space operations leader. His academic credentials include an aerospace engineering degree and honorary doctorate from the University of the German Armed Forces in Munich. His astronaut career features two landmark missions: the 179-day Euromir 95 mission and the Astrolab mission to the International Space Station, accumulating a European record of 350 days in space. At TUM, he teaches comprehensive courses in Space Exploration and Space Safety, sharing insights from his extensive experience in human spaceflight. His leadership roles include serving as DLR Executive Board member for space research and technology, and as ESA's Director of Human Spaceflight and Operations, where he managed Europe's ISS contributions and satellite operations. His teaching methodology combines theoretical knowledge with practical spaceflight experience, helping students understand both technical and operational aspects of space missions. His expertise spans spacecraft operations, spacewalking, and international space cooperation, making him a uniquely qualified instructor in space safety and exploration