The purpose of the GST is the acquisition of knowledge, skills, habits and qualities that constitute the basis for the astronaut's profession.
Main objectives of the GST:
- mastering the theoretical principles of astronautics;
- studying the main components of a manned space complex - transporting spacecrafts (of the types "Soyuz", "Shuttle", ASS (Aviation Space System), etc.), orbital complexes (of the ISS (International Space Station) type), launching complex, Flight Control Center (FCC), search and rescue complex;
- studying the principles of conducting research and experiments during a space flight;
- acquiring theoretical knowledge and initial practical skills of work in spacesuits;
- acquiring theoretical knowledge and initial practical skills of activity outside the spacecraft (in conditions of hydroenvironment and short-duration zero-gravity in flying laboratories);
- flight and special parachute training;
- developing practical skills for actions required in case of water landing and landing in wooded and marshy area, including in winter;
- familiarization with exposure to overloading and vibration during a space flight;
- developing an individual nervous and psychical resistance to the effect of the unfavorable factors of a space flight, acquiring knowledge for ensuring space flight security and skills of work in difficult living conditions;
- conducting a complex of biomedical measures and trainings.
Sections of the general space training:
- theoretical principles of astronautics;
- engineering training;
- principles of conducting applied scientific research and experiments in the space;
- flight and special parachute training;
- special training (ѓљ?, џ', survival, psychological training);
- biomedical training;
- certification arrangements.
The duration of the GST (as required for a flight on a spacecraft of the "Soyuz" type) is 10 to 26 weeks and depends on the specialization chosen before the beginning of the training.
On completion of the GST course and a successful passing of certification tests, the student receives the qualification of an "ASTRONAUT" with specialization "Piloting Astronaut" or "Participating Astronaut" (depending on the training scope agreed upon before the beginning of the training).
