Dr. Malerba is Italy’s first astronaut and I decided to kick off with him this year because I’m totally stoked about the release of Gravity at theaters tomorrow. Due to the Stars’ having games both days over the weekend, we will have to put off seeing the movie until next weekend.
Franco was the payload specialist on Atlantis during a one-week trip around mid 1992. His scientific background entails biophysics and telecommunications. He never returned to space but continues to be involved through Italy’s space agency, ESA and is currently a member of the European Parliament.