Military veteran Tim Peake takes on ambassadorial role as he retires as astronaut
Military veteran Tim Peake has announced he is stepping down as an astronaut, prompting tributes from the space world.
The former British Army Air Corps officer will take on a full-time ambassadorial role for space instead.
In his new role, Major Peake will continue to work with the UK Space Agency and European Space Agency (ESA) to encourage more young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
He said: "Being an ESA astronaut has been the most extraordinary experience.
"I have had the privilege of working with an exceptional team of dedicated individuals during the past 13 years with the agency, which has been incredibly exciting and rewarding.
"By assuming the role of an ambassador for human spaceflight, I shall continue to support ESA and the UK Space Agency, with a focus on educational outreach, and I look forward to the many exciting opportunities ahead."
Born in Chichester in 1972, Maj Peake was selected as an ESA astronaut in May 2009, making him the UK's second astronaut after Helen Sharman.
He became known as the first UK astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS), where he also became the first person to complete a spacewalk with a Union Flag on his shoulder.
Space Agency chief executive Dr Paul Bate said: "Tim Peake is an incredible ambassador for the UK space sector and has played a leading role over the past decade.
"Not only has he carried out important scientific work, during his historic Principia mission to the International Space Station (ISS) and while on Earth, but he has inspired millions with his passion for space and the opportunities it offers."
ESA's director general Josef Aschbacher said: "Tim has been a role model for kids, aspiring youngsters and young professionals alike, inspiring millions of them and at the same time being an excellent ambassador for the whole of ESA, its values and its ambition.
"I would like to thank Tim most sincerely and am looking forward to his continued involvement with the agency."
UKspace chair John Hanley, said: "For more than a decade, Tim Peake has inspired millions of people of all ages in the UK and internationally through his energy and commitment to STEM education and outreach.
"By being the first British astronaut to visit the ISS and complete a spacewalk, Tim has showcased space and brought awareness to the masses of the power and value of space-based technology and data.
"UKspace wishes Tim every success in the next stage of his career as he continues to educate and inspire people through his ambassadorial work."
The former military man hasn't ruled out a return to space in the future, however, in a tweet which said: "And as for getting back to space again – never say never!"
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