(DIUS) UK astronaut selected by European Space Agency

Major Tim Peake has become the first Briton to be selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to take part in manned space flight. He becomes the first British astronaut since Helen Sharman in 1991.

Welcoming the news, Science Minister Lord Drayson said:

"I'm thrilled about Major Tim Peake's success in this toughest of all job applications. Becoming an astronaut is the pinnacle of achievement for anyone involved in space science and technology.

"Major Peake's appointment will be an inspiration and he will be a fantastic ambassador for the UK space industry and science in general.

"I have always known Britain has the right stuff. This proves it."

His appointment follows a gruelling selection process over the past 12 months. Major Peake is one of six new astronauts chosen by ESA from more than 8,000 initial applicants from across Europe.

ESA began its search for new astronauts in May 2008. 822 were from the UK and the selection process is designed to identify the best of the best.

In order to succeed Major Peake has had to undergo intensive medical and psychological evaluations to verify his health, personality and behaviour under pressure. Peake has also been tested on his aptitude to perform the duties of an astronaut. Finally, he had to impress an interview panel and ultimately the Director General of ESA, Jean-Jacques Dordain.

Major Tim Peake's appointment is a ESA staff post, fully funded by ESA. All the new astronauts will commence training with ESA in September 2009, based out of the Astronaut Centre in Cologne, Germany.

The UK space industry contributes nearly £6 billion to the UK economy and supports 19,000 jobs. The British National Space Centre (BNSC) is delighted with today's appointment. It is currently undertaking a review of space exploration including human space flight and will report to Ministers.

Air Vice-Marshal Anderson, the MOD's Senior Responsible Owner for Space Matters said,

'The MOD offers warmest congratulations to Major Peake on his selection. It is a fantastic achievement of which he should be extremely proud. His selection shows the high calibre of our Service personnel and their ability to compete in this expanding and challenging area'.