Sophie Adenot returns after record 235 days in space

French astronaut Sophie Adenot returned to Germany on Saturday after 235 days in space, described as the longest uninterrupted orbital stay by a European astronaut.

Adenot splashed down Thursday in the Pacific Ocean off California in the Dragon capsule carrying Crew-12 after a mission on the International Space Station.

Speaking at the European Space Agency training centre in Cologne, she said that from 400 kilometres above Earth she saw “no divisions, no borders” but “just a precious planet that we all share”.

The 44-year-old appeared weakened on arrival in Germany and was assisted by two ESA physicians. She is due to begin about three weeks of intensive recovery to regain her pre-flight condition after months in microgravity.

Adenot said returning to Earth brought “astonishing emotions” but also physical challenges. She also described a difficult splashdown in which the capsule endured waves for 25 minutes.

During the mission, Adenot became the first French female astronaut to carry out a spacewalk. She completed three spacewalks, on August 18, August 25 and September 1.