28/01/2025
Norwich, GB 7 C
Researching and reporting on the lives of some really interesting people (RIP)

MICHEL SIFFRE, aged 85

A scientist who explored the effect of isolation on human beings by living underground in caves for long periods, leading to a new branch of science.

VALERY RYUMIN, aged 82

Initially a rocket engineer he became a cosmonaut, spending a record amount of time in space and being the oldest man in space. He also appeared at the Olympics

VALERI POLYAKOV, aged 80

A qualified doctor he became a cosmonaut and completed two separate journeys into space, where he did medical experiments. He holds the world record for the longest continuous spell in space.

Vladimir Shatalov

VLADIMIR SHATALOV, aged 93

Shatalov survived the Siege of Leningrad as a child. He became a pilot in the Red Air Force before brilliantly manipulating his way into the Soviet Space Programme as a cosmonaut. He went into space on three occasions.