Early Life and Education

Anton Nikolaevich Shkaplerov was born on February 20, 1972, in Sevastopol, Ukrainian SSR, Soviet Union. He grew up with a passion for space exploration and dreamed of becoming a cosmonaut from a young age. Shkaplerov studied at the Kachin Higher Military Aviation School in Krasnodar, Russia, where he graduated as a pilot-engineer in 1994.

Career in the Russian Space Program

After completing his education, Anton Shkaplerov joined the Russian Air Force and worked as a pilot and flight instructor. In 2003, he was selected to join the Russian cosmonaut corps and began training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center. Shkaplerov made his first spaceflight in 2011 as a flight engineer on Expedition 29/30 to the International Space Station (ISS).

Space Missions and Achievements

Over the course of his career, Anton Shkaplerov has completed three spaceflights to the ISS. He has spent a total of 547 days in space and has conducted numerous experiments and spacewalks during his missions. Shkaplerov is known for his expertise in robotics and has played a key role in operating robotic arms on the ISS.

Personal Life and Interests

In addition to his work as a cosmonaut, Anton Shkaplerov is also an avid outdoorsman and enjoys hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. He is married with two children and resides in Star City, Russia when not on assignment at the ISS. Shkaplerov is fluent in English and Japanese, which has helped him communicate effectively with international crew members on the space station.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Anton Shkaplerov's net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. His earnings primarily come from his work as a cosmonaut with the Russian space program, as well as endorsements and public appearances related to his space missions.

Conclusion

Anton Shkaplerov is a highly accomplished cosmonaut with a successful career in the Russian space program. His dedication to space exploration and scientific research has earned him accolades from colleagues and fans around the world. With multiple spaceflights under his belt and ongoing contributions to ISS missions, Shkaplerov continues to inspire future generations of astronauts and scientists.