About
Alexey Leonov was a Soviet and Russian cosmonaut, aviator, Air Force major general, writer, and artist, making significant contributions to the space program. He is most famous for becoming the first person to conduct a spacewalk in 1965 during the Voskhod 2 mission. During this mission he spent 12 minutes and 9 seconds outside the spacecraft. Although selected to be the first Soviet person to land on the Moon, the program was cancelled. Leonov remains a celebrated figure in space exploration history.
Career Timeline
Selected as Cosmonaut
Chosen as part of the first group of Soviet cosmonauts, joining the elite ranks of the space program. His selection marks the beginning of a historic career.
First Spacewalk in History
Becomes the first human to conduct a spacewalk during the Voskhod 2 mission, spending over 12 minutes outside the spacecraft. This achievement makes him a global hero and icon of space exploration.
Soviet Moon Program Cancelled
Selected to command the first Soviet Moon landing mission, but the program is cancelled after America's Apollo 11 success. His chance at further glory is lost to Cold War politics.
Apollo-Soyuz Test Project
Commands the Soyuz spacecraft in the historic joint U.S.-Soviet Apollo-Soyuz mission, symbolizing détente between superpowers. The mission reinforces his status as a legendary cosmonaut.
Soviet Union Collapses
Retires from active duty as the Soviet space program undergoes major changes with the USSR's dissolution. His fame diminishes in the turbulent post-Soviet era.
Death of Space Pioneer
Dies at age 85, prompting tributes from space agencies worldwide. His passing marks the loss of one of the last remaining pioneers of the Space Race.
Enduring Space Exploration Icon
Remembered as one of history's greatest space pioneers, his first spacewalk remaining a defining moment in human space exploration. While not a household name globally, he is revered in space history circles and in Russia.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026