posted 06-16-2023 10:41 AM               

Executive Order on Instituting the Order of Gagarin

According to its statute, the Order of Gagarin is to be conferred on Russian citizens for successfully performing a manned space mission, a programmes for manned space mission to explore and use outer space; for outstanding services in organising and successfully implementing a space mission and its programme.

In addition, the Order of Gagarin will be awarded for outstanding services in conducting government policy in space activity, including for the purposes of defence and security, in developing, producing, testing and operating, accident-free, rocket and space equipment, developing and introducing new technology and carrying out effective scientific research, as well as for outstanding services in training scientific and engineering personnel.

The Order of Gagarin may be conferred on foreign citizens for their efficient participation in international cooperation with the Russian Federation in the exploration and use of outer space. It may also be awarded to teams of space industry organisations.

posted 06-16-2023 10:41 AM               

Former cosmonaut Tereshkova becomes first holder of Russia’s new award, Order of Gagarin

The new order is awarded for achievements in space exploration, such as a successful manned space flight

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree awarding the world's first female cosmonaut, Valentina Tereshkova, the Order of Gagarin, making her the first holder of the decoration that was established in May.

According to the decree, the order was awarded for outstanding achievements in the exploration of space, courage and selflessness shown during the historic manned flight, vigorous public benefit and international activity. The decree was signed on the 60th anniversary of Tereshkova's flight.

Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov earlier told reporters that Putin would meet Tereshkova on the anniversary of her space flight on Friday, following SPIEF events.

The new order is awarded for achievements in space exploration, such as a successful manned space flight. Also, the award will be given for outstanding achievements in the training of scientists, engineers and other specialists in the field; for achievements in the development, production, testing and trouble-free operation of rocket and space-exploration equipment; in creating and implementing new technologies, in conducting research. Another reason is merits in implementation of government policy in the field of space, including in the interests of defense and security of the Russian Federation.

From June 16-19 of 1963, which was 60 years ago, Valentina Tereshkova — under the call sign Chaika — made her historic flight into space aboard the Vostok-6 spacecraft, which circled the planet 48 times. The total duration of the flight was 2 days and 22 hours and 50 minutes. Tereshkova went down in human history as the first female cosmonaut and the only woman to make a solo space flight.